With Castle Howard undergoing a spectacular transformation of its grand interiors, spring 2025 is the perfect time to experience this iconic estate like never before. Winner of Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2025 and the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award 2025, Castle Howard offers a rich tapestry of culture, history and adventure set against the breathtaking North Yorkshire landscape.
From the long-awaited reveal of the restored Tapestry Drawing Room to exclusive guided tours unveiling the secrets of centuries-old craftsmanship, this season brings history to life within the house’s magnificent walls. Meanwhile, the estate bursts into bloom, inviting visitors to explore everything from enchanting Easter trails to immersive wildlife walks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to step inside a 21st-century renaissance, a family in search of seasonal fun, or a foodie craving a countryside picnic, Castle Howard promises an unforgettable escape this spring.
Culture, history and art:
Name: Castle Howard’s 21st Century Renaissance
Description: Step into history as Castle Howard unveils a stunning transformation in 2025. Witness the grand reveal of the lost Tapestry Drawing Room, meticulously restored after being destroyed in a catastrophic fire over 85 years ago. Experience the reimagined interiors, brought to life through the skill of heritage craftspeople, and see how centuries-old artistry meets modern restoration. Date/times: Opening to the public 25th April 2025
Cost: Included in House and Gardens tickets. Pre-booking is advised, and pre-bookers receive a 10% discount.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/visit-us/the-house/house-conservation-restoration
Name: Castle Howard's 21st Century Renaissance Tour
Description: Join the Curatorial team for an in-depth tour of the House as they explain the story behind the spectacular new developments in the Tapestry Drawing Room, Long Gallery, Grand Staircase and other reimagined interiors new in 2025. Learn how expert craftsmen revived these historic spaces and discover the fascinating blend of preservation and innovation that defines Castle Howard’s 21st-century renaissance.
Date/times: Selected Wednesdays and Saturdays, 3 May – 27th September - 3.30pm Cost: £48, or £38 for Castle Howard Members. Pre-booking essential.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whats-on-view-4/castle-howards-21st-century- renaissance-tour
Name: Filming Location Guided Tour
Description: Castle Howard has starred on screen for over 60 years, featuring in films and dramas from Brideshead to Bridgerton. For many, the house remains synonymous with the fictitious locations it has played. On this exclusive guided tour, uncover the secrets of on-location filming, explore the challenges of transforming a historic house for the screen, and walk in the footsteps of famous characters as you visit key filming locations from some of the most popular productions. Date/times: Every other Wednesday from 7th May.
Cost: £35 or £28 for Castle Howard Members. Pre-booking essential.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whats-on-view-4/filming-location-guided-tour
Name: Mausoleum Tour
Description: Enjoy a rare chance to visit the spectacular 18th-century Mausoleum, described as one of the finest buildings of its kind in northern Europe. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy private areas of the Estate on foot, walking through over 300 years of history, a spectacular landscape which has remained relatively unchanged since the 18th century. 18th-century landscape.
Date/times: 8th May, 19th July
Cost: £48, or £38 for Castle Howard Members. Pre-booking essential.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whats-on-view-4/mausoleum-tour-11
Family friendly
Name: Walled Garden Easter Trail
Description: Help the animal parents find their pesky babies! Badger, deer, owl, fox and their friends have lost their little ones who have given them the slip in the Walled Garden. Help them reunite by finding each baby’s footprints and taking a rubbing to win a chocolatey prize. This fun trail is for children and families, and a fantastic way to see the first signs of spring in the Walled Garden. Date/times: 5th – 27th April
Cost: Included with Gardens and House and Gardens tickets. Pre-booking is advised, and pre- bookers receive a 10% discount.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/whats-on/easter-at-castle-howard-2
Name: Meet lambs at Skelf Island Adventure Playground
Description: Meet baby lambs at Skelf Island Adventure Playground, reared by the Clifford family on the Estate.
Date/times: 19th – 21st April
Cost: Included with Gardens and House and Gardens tickets. Pre-booking is advised, and pre- bookers receive a 10% discount.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/whats-on/easter-at-castle-howard-2
Name: Skelf Island Adventure Playground
Description: Skelf Island, Castle Howard’s legendary Adventure Playground, is a treetop wonderland inspired by the estate’s historic roots in Henderskelfe. Set on an island and accessible by a rope bridge, this magical island is a web of ingenious treetop nests woven through the woodland canopy connected by slides, nets, and climbing equipment. Perfect for young explorers to go on an adventure like no other.
Date/times: Open daily, 10am – 5pm
Cost: Skelf Island Adventure Playground is free with a House and Gardens ticket. Pre-booking is advised, and pre-bookers receive a 10% discount.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/visit-us/visitor-information/skelf-island
Tasty delights
Name: Picnic Afternoon Tea
Description: Indulge in a delightful Picnic Afternoon Tea, crafted by Castle Howard’s expert chefs. Savour dainty sandwiches, hand-baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry conserve, and an assortment of miniature cakes, all served with refreshing iced tea.
Picnic Afternoon Teas are available for collection on the day of your visit and can be enjoyed anywhere in the Grounds. You can purchase a picnic when you book your Gardens or House and Gardens ticket. Prefer a dedicated spot? Picnic benches are available at Skelf Island Adventure Playground for a relaxed outdoor feast.
Date/times: Available from 18th April.
Cost: £21.95 for adults, £10.95 for children. Must be purchased alongside Admission tickets. Pre- booking essential.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/shopping-and-eating/eating/afternoon-tea-picnic
Outdoor explorers
Name: Guided Estate Walks (Dog's Welcome)
Description: Embark on a unique guided walking tour across the breathtaking Castle Howard landscape led by our experienced Game and Wildlife Conservation Manager. This 8km route traverses parts of the Estate not accessible by public footpath providing unique access and views. This tour promises an intimate connection with nature with four-legged friends very welcome to come along. The tour lasts three hours travelling on uneven terrain.
Date/times: 2nd May, 6th June, 4th July, 1st August, 5th September
Cost: £18. Pre-booking essential.
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whats-on-view-4/guided-estate-walks-dogs-welcome
Name: Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Events: Dawn Chorus
Description: Join us at the crack of dawn on International Dawn Chorus Day to experience the magic of daybreak on the Castle Howard Estate. Hear and spot beautiful songbirds and enjoy an experience that will linger long in the memory!
Date/times: 4th May
Cost: £20
Link: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whats-on-view-4/yorkshire-wildlife-trust-events-dawn- chorus-walk-bat-walk-and-fungi-foray
For more inspiration on what’s going on at Castle Howard, visit: https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/. Or get in touch with castlehoward@aberfield.com or gsykes@castlehoward.co.uk who will be able to provide further information and images, as well as itinerary suggestions.