About Castle Howard
Castle Howard is a stately home in North Yorkshire, England, 15 miles north of York. Set in the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Castle Howard is a private residence and has been home of the Carlisle branch of the Howard family for more than 300 years. Castle Howard was commissioned by the 3rd Earl of Carlisle in 1699 and took over 100 years to complete.
Successive generations have welcomed visitors to the House and it was first opened to the public by George Howard in 1952. Visitors can expect dramatic interiors and world-renowned art collections inside the House, which is also the filming location for Bridgerton and Brideshead.
Gardens
With 1,000 acres of parkland to explore, Castle Howard is a haven of peace and tranquillity with extensive woodland walks, temples, lakes and fountains. The monumental landscape offers breathtaking views at every turn, taking in the countryside of the Howardian Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Adventure Playground
Our adventure playground Skelf Island’s named after the historic site Castle Howard sits on, Henderskelfe. Throughout the school holidays, you might encounter the faerie-like creatures that live in the canopies and crooks of Skelf Island, known as Skelves, they’re a friendly and curious bunch that loves to play! Ingenious treetop nest structures connected by rope bridges, slides, nets, and climbing equipment will allow the Skelves to take young visitors on an adventure like no other.