A GARDEN of trees from across the globe which aims to inspire, educate, and conserve is revealing a glorious display of autumnal colour.

Originally part of Castle Howard’s parkland, the Yorkshire arboretum, as it stands today, was created through the enthusiasm and partnership of George Howard, Lord Howard of Henderskelfe and James Russell over a period of 18years, from 1975 to 1992.

Vanbrugh’s bastion wall still forms much of the arboretum’s southern boundary, and many old oaks and chestnuts survive from the 18th century or before, contributing their magnificent presence to the landscape.

In partnership with Kew Gardens, the Castle Howard Arboretum Trust was founded in 1994, before the trustees adopted the Yorkshire Arboretum name in 2012.

2018 has been a big year for the Yorkshire Arboretum with record-breaking admissions and more educational groups and school visits than ever before.

The lake has been dredged and restored to its former glory, with a new path circulating the water, enabling visitors to get close to the banks of Japanese maples, already flaming in brilliant colours at the turn of season.

Director John Grimshaw said: “Judging by the way the trees are turning, I feel we are likely to enjoy a classic show of colour during October and early November.

“The maples are already firing up, and even the ash and hornbeam show signs of going a good clean yellow.

“There are wonderful crops of berries on many trees; the grove of cut-leaved thorns (Crataegus laciniata) opposite the visitor centre is glowing under a cover of orange haws.”

Forthcoming events include an exhibition by Justine Warner, based on a year-long residency at the Yorkshire Arboretum.

For those who fancy getting their hands dirty, a fungi foray takes place on Tuesday, October 30, alongside a half-term schedule, which also includes alien bug hunts and autumn activity trails, plus junior rangers day.

And to round off your visit the arboretum, the café offers indoor and outdoor terrace seating to beat the autumn chill after enjoying nature’s seasonal display.

For more information, visit yorkshirearboretum.org