Castle Howard
Castle Howard is a spectacular 18th-century stately home and estate sitting within the rolling landscape of North Yorkshire. You’ll find it near York with the postcode YO60 7DA.
What’s the vibe?
It’s grand, it’s historic, but more importantly, it’s actually a lot of fun. If you’ve ever seen Bridgerton or Brideshead Revisited, the house will look very familiar! You can wander through the lavish rooms and look up into the massive Great Hall dome. If you have kids in tow, the real winner is the Skelf Island Adventure Playground. It’s an epic treetop adventure with rope bridges and zip wires that keeps younger explorers entertained for hours.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
The grounds are massive. You can stroll through the walled gardens, find hidden statues, or walk down to the Great Lake. Many visitors love taking the little tractor train that runs between the house and the playground—it’s a hit with tired legs. You could easily spend 4 to 5 hours here, or even a full day if the weather is nice.
Tips for Your Wallet
- Food: Eating in the Courtyard Cafe or the Boathouse can get a bit pricey for a large family. There are plenty of lovely spots for a picnic, so bringing your own lunch is a great way to save.
- Parking: Good news here—parking is free and there’s plenty of it.
- Memberships: If you live nearby or plan to visit more than twice, the annual membership is a total steal as it usually pays for itself very quickly and gives you access to the grounds year-round.
- Discounts: Keep an eye out for Blue Light Card discounts or “early bird” booking offers on their website before you head off.
Nearby Highlights
If you want to make a full weekend of it, the market town of Malton is just down the road. It’s known as the “Food Capital of Yorkshire,” so it’s the perfect place to grab dinner after the house closes. For those who love a bit of a thrill, Flamingo Land theme park is also nearby and could easily be combined for a high-energy trip.
Good to Know
While the house is fascinating for all, the Skelf Island area is definitely geared toward primary school-aged children and young teens. If you’re visiting in the winter, their “Christmas in the House” event is legendary—just be sure to book well in advance as it’s their busiest time!