A VIBRANT display of autumn colours is now on offer at the Yorkshire Arboretum.

The 120-acre site, near Castle Howard, is already beginning to turn with reds, golds and yellows with the changing season.

The arboretum closed in March due to the coronavirus pandemic and reopened on June 8 following the government’s guidance on daily exercise.

Originating in 1959, the Yorkshire Arboretum comprises more than 6,000 trees, including some that are endangered, across 128 acres.

“The beginning of October sees the definite change of season from summer to autumn, with green leaves fading and autumnal tints beginning to appear by the end of September; they’ll hot-up as October progresses,” said John Grimshaw, Yorkshire Arboretum director.

“Judging by the first splashes of oranges, reds and golds we look forward to an autumn of spectacular colour for visitors to enjoy over the coming weeks.”

The Yorkshire Arboretum and Ray Wood are gardens of the Castle Howard Arboretum Trust, an independent charity established to maintain and protect the collections of trees and nature.

Founded in 1997 as a partnership between the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Castle Howard, the trust’s patron is the Prince of Wales.

“The restorative benefits of green open spaces and trees have been appreciated more than ever this year, and the arboretum is a perfect place to experience outstanding seasonal natural beauty safely,” added John.

“With sweeping vistas offering wide open spaces and peaceful hidden glades to explore, the Yorkshire Arboretum offers visitors a taste of the natural world away from these uncertain and troubling times.”

Admission is £7 for adults, £3.50 for children (12 to 16 years) and £17.50 for families. Under 12s are free.

It is open from 11am to 4pm, every day until November 30.

For more information, visit yorkshirearboretum.org