Goddards
Sightseeing attraction | York | England | United Kingdom
Goddards is a fascinating attraction in York that provides insight into the history of a prominent family and the architecture of the early 20th century. This property was once the home of Noel Goddard Terry, a member of the famous Terry family known for their chocolate production, particularly the popular "Terry’s Chocolate Orange". Today, Goddards is managed by the National Trust and opens its gardens and selected parts of the house to visitors interested in history, architecture, and garden art.
The house itself is an outstanding example of the Arts and Crafts style, a movement that focused on craftsmanship, natural materials, and harmonious designs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed by the renowned architect Walter Brierley, it reflects the aesthetics of that time with lovingly crafted details such as oak paneling, fireplaces, and large windows that flood the interior with light. While the house is partly used as a regional office for the National Trust, some rooms have been restored to reflect the life of the Terry family in the 1920s and 1930s. Visitors can get a sense of how the family lived during that time, even though the original furniture – Noel Terry's famous Georgian collection – is now exhibited elsewhere in York.
Goddards' garden is another highlight, stretching over about five acres. Designed in the late 1920s by landscape architect George Dillistone, it remains largely in its original condition to this day. Typical of the Arts and Crafts style, the garden is divided into different "rooms" bordered by hedges and shrubs. Each area has its own character: there are fragrant flower beds, formal lawns, a vegetable garden, a historic greenhouse, and several ponds fed by rainwater. This diversity makes the garden a paradise for plant lovers and provides a habitat for numerous wildlife species, including birds, frogs, and dragonflies. Especially in spring when the wisteria blooms on the terrace, or in summer when the flower beds are in full bloom, the garden is an idyllic retreat.
The connection to York's chocolate history is a central aspect of Goddards. The Terry family played a key role in the city's development as a hub of chocolate production, and this story is brought closer to visitors through informative exhibitions. Visitors learn how the family built their fortune and how their influence shaped the local economy. For many visitors, it is a special experience to connect this historical significance with the peaceful atmosphere of the estate, which feels like a hidden oasis despite its location on the outskirts of the city.
Another interesting detail is the statues that once adorned the garden. These figures – including griffins, pelicans, and urns – were chosen by the Terry family in the 1930s, but were removed after the house was sold. Thanks to the efforts of the National Trust and the generosity of the descendants, they have been restored after decades and partially returned to the garden. This return adds additional historical depth to the place and demonstrates the commitment to preserving the heritage of the Terry family.
Goddards also offers a small culinary connection to the past: refreshments are available on the terrace, often including treats with chocolate-orange themes reminiscent of Terry's famous products. Visitors can relax here, enjoy the view of the garden, or take a book from a small selection of used literature. The contrast between the bustling city of York and the peaceful atmosphere of Goddards makes it a special destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle.
In summary, Goddards is much more than just a historic house or a beautiful garden. It tells the story of a family that shaped York's industrial heritage and offers insight into a past way of life. For lovers of architecture, history, and nature, it is a place that is both informative and relaxing – a hidden gem that vividly keeps the region's rich past alive.
