Overview

Enjoy a fantastic day out at Castle Howard. The Gardens and Grounds offer various beautiful features, such as lakes, follies, woodland, temples, and statues that showcase the vibrant colours and dramatic changes of all four seasons. Stroll to the Temple of Four Winds, explore the enchanting Ray Wood, or visit the award-winning Skelf Island Adventure Playground. The Gardens are open daily and welcome dogs.

Things to do

Castle Howard allows visitors to explore a peaceful haven surrounded by 1,000 acres of picturesque parkland. One can stroll through the vast woodlands, admire charming temples, and wander by tranquil lakes and graceful fountains. Every corner of this magnificent landscape unveils breathtaking vistas, showcasing the beauty of the Howardian Hills, a cherished Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Skelf Island is the legendary Adventure Playground, named after the historic site on which Castle Howard sits, Henderskelfe. During school holidays, visitors might encounter the faerie-like creatures that live in the canopies and crooks of Skelf Island, known as Skelves. They are a friendly and curious bunch that loves to play.

Castle Howard’s primary focus is preserving the family home, ensuring it remains a national treasure for families and visitors. Visitors are welcomed during the main Season, from April to October, and treated to festive decorations from November to January. They can explore bedrooms, halls, and staterooms, including fire-damaged rooms from a significant event in 1940. Friendly and knowledgeable guides are available to accompany visitors through the House. Visitors can take their time, immerse themselves in the captivating architecture and interiors, and marvel at the world-renowned collections. It’s an experience to treasure!

Food & Drink

There are several options available to cater to even the most selective eaters. The Fitzroy Café is a chic, stylish, and trendy place to have lunch or a midday energy boost while visiting the House or Gardens. The Boathouse Café is located on the bank of the Great Lake and offers breathtaking water views and picnic seating that overlooks the adventure playground. The Castle Howard Courtyard Cafe prides itself on utilizing locally sourced ingredients and offering a seasonal menu. You can enjoy it during your visit to the House and Gardens or stop by for brunch, lunch, or a treat whenever you’re in the local area.

The Coffee Shop offers ‘food on the go’ options such as sandwiches, baked goods, patisseries, snacks, beverages, and ice cream. The Farm Shop has everything you need: fruits, vegetables, meat, bread, wines, spirits, speciality soft drinks, and gifts. At the delicatessen counter, you can find over 30 cheeses hand-picked for their exceptional flavour and quality, alongside delicious pates, olives, antipasti, scotch eggs, and Estate-made sausage rolls.

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating areas of their cafes, and water bowls are provided. Well-behaved dogs are also allowed inside the Coffee Shop, Farm Shop, Fitzroy Cafe, Boathouse Cafe, and Courtyard Cafe. Bones are available for purchase from the Farm Shop, subject to availability.