Forget one-size-fits-all days out. This summer, Castle Howard invites you to build your perfect visit around what inspires you most.
When it comes to days out in Yorkshire, everyone’s looking for something different. Some people want to wander through stunning landscapes. Others are after interactive experiences with the kids. And some want to dig deeper into history.
That’s what makes Castle Howard such a brilliant summer destination. Whatever your passion, you can shape your visit around exactly what you want to see.
If you’re here for history…
Credit: Visit Britain
2026 is a special year at Castle Howard, with a programme of events celebrating the life and legacy of Sir John Vanbrugh, 300 years after his death. A soldier, spy, playwright and self-taught architect, Vanbrugh lived an extraordinary life that helped shape one of Britain’s most iconic country houses.
Discover his fascinating story through Roz Barr’s Staging the Baroque exhibition, which uses dramatic photography and large-scale architectural models to bring Vanbrugh’s theatrical vision to life.
Looking to dig deeper? Behind Closed Doors lets you step beyond the crimson ropes and join Castle Howard’s expert curators for an exclusive journey through areas of the house rarely seen by the public. Discover hidden viewpoints, remarkable architecture and captivating stories from more than three centuries of history.
You can even live out your best Bridgerton fantasy, with period costumes available to try on and photograph in the Long Gallery – one of the filming locations featured in the first series of the hit show. New profile picture pending.
If you’re here for art…
Credit: James Drury
Castle Howard isn’t just one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the UK. It’s also a stage for bold contemporary art, where internationally renowned artists transform historic spaces into immersive experiences. The contrast between centuries-old architecture and modern creativity makes every installation feel even more striking.
Renowned artist and designer Es Devlin, whose work spans world tours for Beyoncé, The Weeknd and Adele as well as exhibitions at The National Portrait Gallery and the Design Museum, has transformed the Temple of the Four Winds into the Library of the Four Winds – a luminous, revolving installation created from hundreds of books. Designed to celebrate 2026 as the National Year of Reading, it’s a place where visitors are encouraged to gather, read and create.
Pippa Hale’s Playshapes offers an exciting opportunity to get hands-on with art. Situated within the historic Colonnade, this interactive play experience is made up of giant coloured cubes that can be transformed into towers, follies and dens. What will you create?
If you’re here for nature…
Credit: Charlie Kirkpatrick
With more than a thousand acres to explore, you could easily spend a full day roaming Castle Howard’s grounds and gardens. Wander through woodland, discover hidden follies and statues, and linger by the lake. It’s a living canvas that evolves through the seasons, and summer is the perfect time to see it in all its glory.
Then there’s the Arboretum – a peaceful sanctuary home to rare trees from around the world. Explore it at your own pace, or visit for one of its special summer events, from red squirrel meet-and-greets to evening bat walks.
There are even more ways to experience the estate this year, with Adventure Cinema’s outdoor film screenings, Ministry of Sound Classical and Summer Gardens Lates – an after-hours event featuring live music, a drawing workshop, pizzas and a licensed bar, which you can catch on Friday 7th August and Friday 4th September 2026.
Plan your perfect Castle Howard Day Out
From interactive art exhibitions and peaceful walks to exclusive heritage experiences, no two visits are the same at Castle Howard. Discover your perfect day out this summer.
