Castle Howard – stately home, magnificent gardens and Baroque architecture

Castle Howard is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular attractions near York and an absolute must-see for every visitor. This magnificent English country house in North Yorkshire is far more than just a historic building – it's a living work of art that tells over 300 years of the Howard family's history. The impressive baroque architecture by John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor will captivate you from the very first moment.  

The stately home opens its doors to visitors, offering glimpses into sumptuous salons, the Great Hall with its 70-foot dome, and restored rooms lovingly recreated after the devastating 1940 fire. The current "21st Century Renaissance" project has brought spectacular interiors like the Tapestry Drawing Room back to life. The art collection features works by masters including Tintoretto and Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini.  

Film enthusiasts will immediately recognise Castle Howard: the estate served as a filming location for the popular Netflix series "Bridgerton," where it appeared as Clyvedon Castle. It's equally famous as the setting for "Brideshead Revisited" from 1981 and 2008. Other productions like Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon" were also filmed here.  

The 1,000-acre gardens and parkland are equally impressive: from formal gardens to the Woodland Garden and picturesque lakes, the landscape enchants visitors in every season. Children will love the award-winning Skelf Island Adventure Playground. Special highlights include the Temple of the Four Winds and the imposing Mausoleum. The gardens are open daily, the house from spring to autumn, with special Christmas decorations during winter.