The Arboretum Trust, Kew at Castle Howard is an independent charitable trust formed in 1997 by Castle Howard and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew under the patronage of HRH The Prince of Wales. The Arboretum opened to the public for the first time as part of the celebrations of Castle Howard's tercentenary in 1999. The plant collection has inestimable value for environmental conservation, scientific research and education and is curated on a visiting basis by John Simmons, OBE VMH, previous curator at Kew. The Kew Liaison Officer is Tony Kirkham, Assistant Curator at Kew.  

With a small but dedicated staff, supported by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, The Arboretum Trust has two main priorities. The first is to maintain and develop the unique tree collection and protect rare species. The second is to welcome visitors wishing to learn about trees and their importance to the changing climatic environment, and those wanting nothing more than just to glory in the tranquility and beauty of this sheltered valley tucked away in the Howardian Hills.

To find out more visit The Arboretum's web site