Castle Howard: A Majestic English Country House and Gardens
Experience the grandeur of Castle Howard, a historic English country house set in stunning gardens and parkland, blending heritage, nature, and family fun.
Castle Howard is a grand historic country house located near York, England, set within 1,000 acres of landscaped parkland featuring lakes, temples, statues, and extensive gardens. Built over 300 years ago, it remains a family home and showcases world-renowned art collections. The estate also includes the award-winning Skelf Island Adventure Playground, farm shop, cafes, and holiday cottages, making it a diverse destination for history, nature, and family experiences.
A brief summary to Castle Howard
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA, GB
- +441653648333
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to save 10% and secure timed entry, especially for house tours.
- Visit the Skelf Island Adventure Playground for a unique family experience inspired by local folklore.
- Check seasonal events like the Christmas display featuring the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, running mid-November to early January.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds, including lakeside walks and woodland trails.
- Take advantage of the estate’s accessible facilities, including wheelchair-friendly play equipment and toilets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From York city centre, take a train to Malton (approximately 25 minutes), then catch the local bus service 128 or 129 to Castle Howard village (around 15 minutes). The bus service runs hourly but check schedules in advance. Total journey time is about 50-60 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £7-£12 GBP.
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Car
Driving from York, Castle Howard is about 25 km northeast, taking roughly 35 minutes via A64. On-site parking is available free of charge. Note that during peak seasons parking can fill quickly, so arrive early. The route is suitable for all vehicles but may be busy on weekends and holidays.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi from York city centre to Castle Howard typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic and costs around £35-£50 GBP. This option offers direct and flexible travel, ideal for groups or those with limited time.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Coneysthorpe village, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through rural paths leads to Castle Howard’s entrance. Terrain is mostly flat but may be muddy after rain. Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Castle Howard location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Castle Howard
An Architectural Masterpiece Rooted in History
Castle Howard stands as one of England's most exquisite stately homes, constructed over three centuries ago as the ancestral seat of the Howard family. This magnificent Baroque country house is renowned for its grand scale and elaborate design, featuring soaring domes, ornate facades, and richly decorated interiors. The house has been continuously inhabited by the Howard family, whose successive generations have contributed to its evolving character and extensive art collections. Recent restoration efforts, including the 21st Century Renaissance project unveiled in 2025, have revitalized key interiors such as the Tapestry Drawing Room, lost to fire in 1940, and enhanced the presentation of the Long Gallery and Grand Staircase, blending preservation with renewed vibrancy.Expansive Grounds and Enchanting Gardens
Surrounding the house, the estate encompasses approximately 1,000 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland. Visitors can explore sweeping lawns dotted with classical statues, ornamental lakes, and architectural follies such as temples and bridges. The gardens offer a tranquil setting for leisurely walks, featuring a walled garden, south and north lakes, and woodland areas where playful wildlife can be spotted. The estate’s commitment to nature restoration and rewilding adds an eco-conscious dimension to the landscape, enhancing its biodiversity and natural beauty.Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Castle Howard is not only a historic landmark but also a vibrant family destination. The award-winning Skelf Island Adventure Playground invites children to explore imaginative treetop nests, rope bridges, slides, and climbing nets, inspired by local folklore creatures called Skelves. The estate provides picnic areas, a Boathouse Café with family-friendly menus including vegan options, and accessible facilities such as wheelchair-friendly play equipment and toilets. Seasonal family events and school holiday activities enrich the visitor experience, making it ideal for all ages.Cultural Significance and Media Fame
The house and grounds have served as the backdrop for numerous film and television productions, most notably the Netflix and Shondaland series Bridgerton, where Castle Howard portrayed the fictional Clyvedon Castle. This media exposure has heightened its cultural profile, attracting visitors keen to experience the grandeur seen on screen. The estate also hosts exhibitions and events that celebrate its artistic heritage and ongoing conservation efforts.Visitor Amenities and Services
Visitors to Castle Howard can enjoy a range of amenities including a farm shop, courtyard café, coffee shop, and a garden centre, all operating on a cashless basis. The estate offers guided tours, special events, and holiday cottage accommodations nearby for extended stays. Accessibility is a priority, with award-winning inclusive tourism initiatives ensuring that the site welcomes diverse audiences comfortably.Seasonal Highlights and Practical Information
Castle Howard is open daily, with the house accessible from 10am to 5:30pm and the gardens and playground open from 9am to 4pm. The house is specially dressed for Christmas with themed displays running from mid-November to early January. Visitors are advised to book tickets online to save on admission and to check for any temporary closures or special event schedules. The estate’s location near York makes it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway destination within the scenic Yorkshire countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval Walls
20.9 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Sundial Column
21.1 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
21.1 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
21.2 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Bootham Bar
21.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
21.2 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
21.2 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Norman House
21.3 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Deathly Dark Tours
21.3 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
The Stonebow
21.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
King's Manor - University of York
21.3 km
A majestic Grade I listed Tudor manor blending royal history with academic life in the heart of York’s city centre.
York Oratory
21.3 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
GR8escape York
21.3 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at GR8escape York, the ultimate escape room destination for fun, teamwork, and unforgettable memories in the heart of York.
Barley Hall
21.3 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
York's Chocolate Story
21.3 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kirkham Priory
4.7 km
Peaceful riverside ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory, with a magnificent gatehouse and a secret WWII past, set in the scenic Derwent Valley near York.
Howsham Mill
7.4 km
Historic Georgian Gothic watermill restored as a renewable energy and environmental education centre on a scenic island in the River Derwent.
Medieval Village of East Lilling
7.7 km
Explore the haunting earthworks of East Lilling, a deserted medieval village near York steeped in history and surrounded by serene countryside.
National Trust - Nunnington Hall
10.4 km
Explore the timeless charm of Nunnington Hall, a 17th-century Yorkshire manor with historic interiors, exquisite miniature collections, and tranquil organic gardens.
YWT Strensall Common
11.0 km
Vibrant heathland sanctuary where military heritage and nature conservation create a unique Yorkshire wilderness.
Piglets Adventure Farm
12.7 km
A vibrant family farm near York with hands-on animal encounters, adventure play, and seasonal events for all ages.
Sutton Park
14.4 km
Historic Sutton Park in York offers a welcoming events venue blending rich heritage with scenic charm and community spirit.
Wharram Percy Medieval Village
15.4 km
Explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Wharram Percy, England’s iconic deserted medieval village nestled in the tranquil Yorkshire Wolds.
Cravens Motocycle Museum
16.2 km
A passionate private collection of classic British motorcycles and motoring memorabilia, hidden in a quiet York suburb.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
16.2 km
Step back in time at Pickering Station, the charming 1930s terminus of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and journey through Yorkshire’s breathtaking moorland.
Helmsley
17.0 km
Historic market town at the edge of North York Moors, blending medieval heritage with stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Helmsley Castle
17.1 km
Discover 900 years of history at Helmsley Castle, where medieval fortifications meet Tudor elegance amidst stunning North York Moors scenery.
Byland Abbey
18.8 km
Explore the grand ruins of Byland Abbey, a masterpiece of early Gothic architecture nestled in North Yorkshire’s tranquil moorlands.
Danelaw Centre For Living History
19.0 km
Step back over a thousand years to explore authentic Viking and Roman life in a vibrant living history centre set within scenic rural Yorkshire.
Murton Park
19.0 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich farming heritage and living history on 14 acres of interactive exhibits, animals, and family fun near York.
Essential places to dine
The Stone Trough Inn
4.8 km
Historic Yorkshire inn with rustic charm, local cuisine, and stunning views overlooking Kirkham Abbey’s scenic countryside.
Restaurant Mýse
7.4 km
An acclaimed Michelin-starred modern British restaurant in Hovingham delivering innovative, locally inspired multi-course tasting menus in a cozy, elegant setting.
Huckleberrys American Diner
8.8 km
Classic American diner fare with a friendly vibe, hearty burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of York.
Dewars Restaurant And Rooms
11.3 km
Boutique luxury and exceptional dining in a tranquil North Yorkshire village retreat with heated pool and sauna.
The Star Inn
13.9 km
Michelin-starred gastropub in historic Harome, blending rustic charm, exceptional Yorkshire cuisine, and warm hospitality in the scenic Howardian Hills.
Pignut Restaurant
17.0 km
Experience innovative, locally inspired fine dining in the heart of Helmsley at Pignut Restaurant.
Little Italy
21.0 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
21.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Arras
21.1 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
21.1 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
21.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Fat Hippo York
21.2 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
21.2 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Guy Fawkes Inn
21.2 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Côte York
21.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kemps General Store Ltd
7.1 km
Discover unique gifts and books in a friendly, independent emporium at the heart of Malton’s historic Market Place.
Duncombe Park Shop
17.1 km
Discover unique Yorkshire gifts and local treasures at Duncombe Park Shop in the heart of historic Helmsley.
Uniquely Local Experiences
19.2 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
Old York
20.4 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
Fairer World
20.9 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Monk Bar Model Shop
21.0 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Village Shop
21.0 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Cleggs
21.0 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Snowhome
21.0 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
National Trust Gift Shop
21.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
21.1 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
York Minster Shop
21.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
SOCTOPUS
21.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
21.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
21.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
21.0 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Eagle & Child
21.2 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Evil Eye
21.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
21.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
21.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Vudu Lounge
21.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
21.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Pivní York
21.3 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Victor J's
21.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
21.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Punch Bowl
21.4 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
The Hop York
21.4 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Blue Bell
21.4 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Fossgate Social
21.4 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
21.4 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
21.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
BlueBox
21.5 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
21.6 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
21.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
21.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
21.8 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
21.8 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
21.8 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Videotheque Disco's
44.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie
45.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine at Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie, a vibrant destination in Whitby with a diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere.
Arabian Night Lounge
53.9 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
54.6 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
54.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
54.8 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
Big Fellas Nightclub
54.8 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly