Welcome to Darwin Gardens
Darwin Gardens Millennium Green is situated only a few minutes’ walk from Ilkley town centre. Explore the area around the Green and enjoy the beautiful views of Ilkley Moor that surround the location. Picnic tables and seats are available throughout the gardens, allowing you to choose a spot with a view or one nestled amongst the trees.
As well as its attractive location and variety of wildlife habitats, the Green also includes many features that have been inspired by the evolution of Ilkley over the millennia – including Charles Darwin’s period of residence here during the first publication of The Origin of Species and his connection with several historic buildings that surround the Millennium Green.
Based on themes of evolution and regeneration, the area comprises an imaginative blend of wildlife-friendly landscaping, fascinating recreational features, community-based artwork, and links to Ilkley’s association with Charles Darwin.
How to get here
By car: From Ilkley town centre, which can be reached from the A65 by turning south into Brook Street at a traffic light-controlled junction, visitors should proceed south up Wells Road, turning right into the car park immediately after crossing a cattle grid.
On foot: Visitors should take the delightful waterside link up from the centre of town. This starts by the new fountain on The Grove, situated adjacent to Dacre, Son & Hartley, at the foot of the wooded Mill Ghyll. Follow the stream by the footpath and bridges until you reach the gate. Cross Wells Walk and Queens road and carry on walking straight up Linnburn Mews.
The nearest public toilet is a short distance away at White Wells. Alternatively, there are more public toilets (including Changing Places facilities) located by the large central car park between Brook Street and The Grove.
Winter Time at Darwin Gardens
The Darwin Gardens Trail
Contemplation Spots at Darwin Gardens
Millennium Green Maze
