Castle Howard House and Gardens York

Enjoy a peaceful self-guided walk around Castle Howard House.

Situated in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Castle Howard is a magnificent estate located in the Yorkshire countryside. The imposing house and its gardens have become famous as the setting for many popular films and television series, including Brideshead Revisited and Victoria.

Important Ticket Information

    • The stunning house.

      The house is an architectural masterpiece, designed by Sir John Vanbrugh and built in the early 18th century for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle. It took over 100 years to complete and features stunning baroque-style interiors, with elaborate ceilings, intricate wood carvings, and grand fireplaces.

    • The Walled Garden.

      One of the most popular attractions at Castle Howard House, the Walled Garden is filled with colourful flowers, fruit trees, and perfectly manicured hedges. Visitors can wander through the garden’s various sections, including a rose garden, herbaceous borders, and a vegetable patch.

    • The Great Lake.

      Spanning over 20 acres, the Great Lake is a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Visitors can take in stunning views of the house and surrounding countryside as they walk around. You can even hire a rowing boat if you feel so inclined.

    • The Temple of the Four Winds.

      A short walk from the house, the Temple of the Four Winds is a striking architectural feature that offers panoramic views of the estate. It was built in the 1730s as a place for guests to enjoy tea and admire the landscape.

    • The Mausoleum.

      Located on a hilltop overlooking the estate, the Mausoleum is an impressive structure designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor. It serves as the final resting place for many members of the Howard family, including the 9th Earl and his wife.

    • Skelf Island Adventure Playground.

      For younger visitors, the Skelf Island Adventure Playground is the perfect place to run, climb, and play. With a variety of play equipment, including swings, slides, and a treehouse, it’s a fun addition to the estate.

How to Get There

Location: Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA, United Kingdom.

The estate is easily accessible from the A64 and has ample parking available on site. You can also take a bus (route 81) directly from York to Castle Howard. The nearest train station is Malton, which has buses running to Castle Howard as well.

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