
Castle Howard
A stunning 18th-century stately home set in vast, picturesque grounds with lakes, gardens, and woodland trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Castle Howard
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 18th-century stately home set in vast, picturesque grounds with lakes, gardens, and woodland trails.
"This is the best non-medieval castle in all of Great Britain."

🎟️ Book Christmas Tickets Early
Christmas at Castle Howard is magical but sells out fast. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds and house. Comfortable footwear is a must!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Magnificent House
Main Estate
An ornate, gilded 18th-century stately home with visually impressive interiors that bring history to life.

The Walled Garden
Gardens
One of the finest walled gardens around, bursting with color and meticulously maintained flora.

Expansive Grounds & Trails
Estate Grounds
Magnificent grounds with lakes, temples, and forest trails perfect for a full day of exploration.

Farm & Garden Shop
Estate Entrance
A delightful stop for local produce, unique gifts, and a taste of the estate's bounty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Christmas (I’m sorry) at Castle Howard advice
🎟️ Book Christmas Tickets Early
Christmas at Castle Howard is magical but sells out fast. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds and house. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Castle Howard is a stately home in North Yorkshire, England, within the civil parish of Henderskelfe, located 15 miles north of York. It is a private residence and has been the home of the Carlisle branch of the Howard family for more than 300 years.
York Trip, is 3 days too long!?
⏳ Allow a Full Day
There's so much to see, from the house to the gardens and trails. Plan for a full day's adventure.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the grounds, but not inside the house. Perfect for dog lovers!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Christmas Tickets Early
Christmas at Castle Howard is magical but sells out fast. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds and house. Comfortable footwear is a must!
⏳ Allow a Full Day
There's so much to see, from the house to the gardens and trails. Plan for a full day's adventure.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the grounds, but not inside the house. Perfect for dog lovers!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
The cafe offers delicious food, from morning tea to lunch. A great spot to refuel during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castle Howard for its breathtaking architecture, magnificent gardens, and expansive grounds, making it a destination where one can easily spend a full day. The immersive historical feel and the charming farm shop are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that while the house is impressive, the true magic lies in exploring the vast estate.
"Beautiful gardens and forest. The walled garden is one of the best around. The audio house tour is highly recommended. One can easily spend a day wandering the grounds and forest trails. Excellent farm and garden shop, and a children's play area that makes adults want to join. Excellent cafe. All in all, a wonderful place to wander alone, or for a day out with the entire family."
Cheryl Chapman
"This is the best non- mideval castle in all of Great Britain.
While it is 500 years old, it is almost modern in the look and feel.
The way it's set up for viewing, you can almost see and hear the family going about their daily routines and lives.
The grounds are magnificent and and need to be seen to be fully appreciated.
This is a historic site that should be mandatory for everyone visiting England."
Stephen G
"Such a beautiful house, gardens and the grounds. You can spend a whole day exploring. The cafe is very good, we had morning tea when we arrived and then lunch after we had a good look around the house."
zandra bill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castle Howard is located near York. It's best accessed by car, with ample parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors. It's usually included with your admission ticket or can be purchased separately.
While possible, it's more challenging without a car. You can take a train to York and then a taxi or a pre-booked tour.
Castle Howard is well-signposted from major routes. Use a GPS or navigation app for the most direct route from your starting point.
Public transport is limited. You might need to combine train travel to York with a taxi or local bus service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you choose to visit the house, gardens, or both. It's often more cost-effective to purchase a combined ticket, especially on a sunny day.
For general visits, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events like Christmas. This guarantees entry and can sometimes offer a small discount.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official Castle Howard website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and days.
Yes, you can purchase tickets specifically for the gardens if you prefer not to tour the house. This is a great option if you're primarily interested in the stunning landscapes.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or specific membership schemes. Check the official website for current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the magnificent house, wander through the beautiful gardens and walled garden, walk the forest trails, enjoy a boat trip on the lake, and visit the farm and garden shop.
Absolutely! There's a dedicated children's play area, and the vast grounds offer plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. The boat trip is also a hit with younger visitors.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the house, but check for any specific restrictions in certain rooms. The grounds offer endless photographic opportunities.
Dogs are welcome in the grounds and gardens on a lead, but they are not permitted inside the house itself.
To fully appreciate the house and grounds, it's recommended to allocate at least half a day, if not a full day, for your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are excellent cafes on-site offering a range of options from light snacks and morning tea to full lunches. The farm shop also has delicious treats.
The cafes typically serve a selection of sandwiches, salads, cakes, and hot meals. They are known for delicious salads and cakes.
Picnic spots are usually available in designated areas of the grounds. It's a great option for a more budget-friendly meal.
While there are cafes, it's more of a cafe and tea room experience rather than a formal restaurant. They offer substantial meals.
Most cafes offer a variety of options, including vegetarian choices. It's advisable to check the menu on the day of your visit or inquire with staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic facade of the house, the serene lakes, the vibrant walled garden, and the various follies and temples scattered across the grounds all make for stunning photographs.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic estates like Castle Howard to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Always check their specific drone policy.
Photography is usually permitted in most rooms, but it's important to be respectful and check for any signs indicating restrictions. Flash photography might be prohibited.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for outdoor photography. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens still offer great shots.
Don't miss the view of the house across the lake, the intricate details of the walled garden, and the grand architectural features of the estate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, or take advantage of the family-friendly cafe options. The farm and garden shop can also be a fun stop for kids to discover local treats.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Remember to bring water and waste bags for your dog. The cafe areas may have designated outdoor seating where dogs can join you.
🚶♀️ Garden Enthusiasts
Allow ample time to wander through the different garden sections, from formal parterres to more naturalistic woodland settings. The changing seasons bring different blooms and colors, making it a destination worth revisiting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors often remark on how the setup allows them to 'almost see and hear the family going about their daily routines and lives,' making it feel remarkably personal and lived-in. This immersive quality sets it apart from many other historic sites, offering a unique connection to its past inhabitants.
The estate has also played a role in popular culture, famously featuring as Brideshead in the 1981 television adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's novel 'Brideshead Revisited.' This association adds another layer of intrigue for many visitors.
Exploring the Grand Estate
Beyond the formal gardens, the estate offers extensive forest trails and lakes, providing opportunities for peaceful walks and scenic views. The presence of follies and temples, such as the Temple of the Four Winds, adds architectural interest and picturesque spots for reflection. A boat trip on the lake is also a popular activity, offering a different perspective of the estate.
For families, the children's play area is a significant draw, ensuring younger visitors are entertained. The estate also boasts an excellent farm and garden shop, where visitors can purchase local produce and unique gifts, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit