The essence of Newburgh Priory is the perfect setting, the peace and quiet, the woods, the lake, the wildlife and the fabulous views from all angles.
Newburgh Priory is one of those wonderful places that creeps under your skin and makes you want to visit again. I first came here when I was at boarding school at nearby Duncombe Park. It is always a pleasure to arrive at the main gates and explore the gardens and house all over again.
The monks definitely knew where to build in Yorkshire, as Newburgh Priory is in a broad valley cradled by the Hambleton hills and overlooked by the iconic Sutton Bank and, on the ridge, the White Horse of Kilburn. In the foreground a large spring fed lake holds large collections of water fowl and woodland birds and it's here, each April, I usually see my very first swallow of the season.
To the south side of the Priory, the gardens gently slope up the hill and form a great backdrop with mature trees and broad avenues whilst throughout the woods emerge secret areas of wild flowers and if you're quiet you may disturb a roe deer or two.
It's just a place to visit to recharge your batteries and to appreciate the countryside and the wildlife around you.
Judy Popley is the owner of Flower Power Fairs, speciailist plant fairs held throughout the North of England at unique locations.
Flower Power Fairs will be at Newburgh Priory on Sunday 14th April, find out more here.
