Join a member of the Harewood Estate team for a memorable behind-the-scenes experience that takes you off the beaten path and closer to the animals, landscapes and stories that make Harewood special.
Depending on the time of year, your experience will take one of two routes.
March to 30 October: Deer Park Walk
Meet your guide and set off on an engaging walk through Harewood’s historic 200-acre Deer Park, venturing beyond the usual bridleway into areas that are generally inaccessible to the public.
Follow your guide safely through the parkland, getting closer to the deer and observing them in their natural habitat. Along the way, take in panoramic views across the rolling hills and valley, while learning about the history of the landscape, its wildlife and Harewood’s ongoing conservation work.
Your guide will share fascinating stories about the Estate and its deer, answer your questions and point out the flora and fauna that make this special landscape their home. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife and listen out for the smaller creatures that inhabit the park.
Please note that the Deer Park walk is seasonal. From 31 October until the end of February, we cannot enter the Deer Park as this is the deer’s rutting season. During this time, the experience changes to a behind-the-scenes livestock walk.
31 October to the end of February: Livestock Experience
Head off the beaten path and into areas of Harewood Estate that are usually closed to the public, getting up close to some of the livestock that play an important role in caring for the landscape.
As you stroll from field to field, your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to our Hebridean sheep, Highland cattle, Aberdeen Angus cows and Oxford Sandy & Blacks. Discover the unique characteristics of each breed and learn about their role in maintaining the health and biodiversity of Harewood’s landscape.
You’ll hear stories about the history and heritage of our animals, as well as the ethical and sustainable approaches we use to care for them. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and find out more about what it takes to manage livestock on a historic estate today.
Both experiences offer a unique opportunity to see Harewood from a different perspective, whether you’re exploring the Deer Park or meeting our livestock up close. It’s a chance to discover parts of Harewood that you wouldn’t normally see, learn more about the animals that call it home and gain a deeper appreciation of the work that goes into caring for this unique landscape.
Please note: Both experiences involve a minimum of two miles of walking over uneven terrain. The Deer Park walk includes steep hills, while the livestock experience may involve wet and muddy fields. Sturdy, appropriate footwear is essential. And, where there’s livestock, there’s poo!
This experience does not include entry to Harewood House, Grounds and Gardens. The experience takes place within Harewood Estate and is not dog friendly.
