Castle Howard

Set in an elevated position, against the Howardian Hills in the North Riding of Yorkshire, Castle Howard's magnificent facade is visible for miles around. It is the largest house in Yorkshire and has been the home of the Howard family, since the 17th century.

Built for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, Castle Howard was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, whose first project this was, his second was Blenheim Palace. Sir John chose the brilliant Nicholas Hawksmoor as his clerk of works, which proved to be a partnership of unparalleled excellence and together they created one of England's grandest homes.

You will delight in the many elegant architectural features, the balustrade, frieze and pilasters; the statues and the long arched windows, but best of all is the beautiful cupola, which crowns the centre of the house.

The marble entrance hall, lit by the dome is impressive; the long gallery is also note worthy, but the house has many superb rooms, filled with fine furniture, statues and beautiful china. You will marvel at the remarkable collection of paintings by Rubens, Tintoretto, Van Dyke, Canaletto and Reynolds; the most famous is the portrait of Henry V111. You will also be able to see a fascinating collection of drawings and paintings, the work of the 9th Earl; a gifted artist who devoted much of his time to his great interest.

World-class gardens proudly display seasonal collections of snowdrops, daffodils, rhododendrons, azaleas, roses and delphiniums. While the 1,000 acres of sublime landscape filled with temples, lakes, statues and fountains will always leave visitors full of awe; don't miss seeing Vanbrugh's Temple of the four winds, or Hawksmoor's circular Mausoleum, which is as big as one of Christopher Wren's churches.

In the grounds, enjoy outdoor tours that reveal the secrets of the architecture and gardens.

Inside, welcoming guides bring stories of the house, family and collections to life.

Exhibitions in 2008 include 'Brideshead Restored', a look at past and present filming at Castle Howard. A permanent exhibition on The Women of Castle Howard celebrates the lives and accomplishments of the women who have lived and worked at Castle Howard throughout the centuries.

A varied programme of events run throughout the year and include the annual Castle Howard Proms Spectacular, Food Festival, School Holiday Children's Activities and for the first time, Christmas Opening.

Well known for its first class shopping, Castle Howard's retail outlets include an award-winning farm shop, extended plant centre and chocolate shop, as well as gift and craft shops. Homemade meals are available in the Courtyard Café and Fitzroy Room, while the Lakeside Café, next to the adventure playground, offers a selection of family friendly drinks and snacks.

Dogs on leads are welcome at Castle Howard. Please note that there are a few restricted areas where dogs are not permitted and these are clearly signed.

Castle Howard has good facilities available for the disabled.