Harewood House

I had a wonderful day out recently at Harewood House, one of the foremost historic homes in the country, which just happens to be half an hour's drive away. Designed by the famous architects John Carr and Robert Adam, and later extended by Sir Charles Barry (who also rebuilt the Palace of Westminster, our Parliament building in London), it was built between 1759 and 1771 for Edward Lascelles, a wealthy West Indian plantation and slave owner. It is still owned by the Lascelles: David, the 8th Earl of Harewood, and his wife Diane. 

The south frontage has magnificent views of the gardens and estate, landscaped by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. 

The north side, where the main entrance is, immediately declares its grandeur, with its wonderful classical and symmetrical Palladian architecture. 

Beyond the vast lawns on the north side, there are views across the Wharfe valley to the rocky outcrop of Almscliffe Crag. You may be able to spot, in my photo below, the 'ha-ha' - a hidden ditch that acts as a barrier to prevent animals getting into the gardens, without blocking the view like a wall or a fence would do. ( I don't know why these hidden ditches are called 'ha-has', unless it is just what people say when they see you unexpectedly disappearing into one!)