Summer Stays at Castle Howard

Promotional blog provided by Castle Howard

More than a quarter of a million people visit Castle Howard every year, and it’s easy to see why. This sprawling, majestic estate has an exceptionally broad appeal and an eclectic and impressive calendar of events. A place to be enjoyed by all ages, whatever the season; but a place that truly comes to life during the warm summer months.

For visitors, a day out and about on the Castle Howard Estate is a lovely break from the norm, but it’s not always long enough to really appreciate everything there is to see and do, which is why many people opt to make it a proper break… and stay for a few days, or more!

A summer holiday stay at Castle Howard Holiday Cottages offers freedom, variety, fun and adventure. No airport stresses, just park the car and enjoy the break – and dogs are very welcome too.

There are six beautiful stone cottages to rent, each superbly restored to offer elegance, luxury, contemporary convenience, glorious views and a traditional Yorkshire village setting. Accommodating two to six people in 1-, 2- and 3-bed cottages, means that for those looking to enjoy a wider family holiday, it’s possible to book multiple cottages – after all, grandparents on hand is a priceless thing!

Busy days and balmy evenings make for a magical time, so it’s good to know that each cottage offers absolutely everything needed to make a stay on the Estate utterly perfect… Beautifully decorated with a blend of antiques, pieces from Castle Howard itself and modern conveniences, expect a well-equipped kitchen, including dishwasher and everything you need to cook a nice meal when you don’t want to venture out– and there’s also a washing machine and dryer or washer/dryer which can be a godsend for families. Home entertainment-wise, smart or Freeview TVs, DVD players and WiFi should keep everyone happy. Log burners are in each lounge to ensure a cosy evening.

For bedtime, bedrooms range from twin to super-king size, with ensuite and family bathrooms. And talking of bathrooms, whether individuals prefer a long soak in a beautiful roll top bath after a busy day, or a refreshing morning shower to kickstart the day, the choice is there. Complimentary White Company toiletries are a nice touch too.

These cottages are simply outstanding inside, but for summer, that’s when life becomes far more about the outside. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining in furnished and private gardens, family barbecues and precious playtime. Some gardens are even fully enclosed, so no need to worry about the dog either. A village location is also calming and peaceful, and for the cottage in Welburn, an added bonus is that it is easily walkable to The Crown and Cushion pub and Dogh, a bakery/deli/cafe. The other five cottages are located in Coneysthorpe which is the closest village to Castle Howard, so perfect for discovering the gardens and enjoying daily family adventures. Every cottage booking also comes with complimentary tickets into the Estate.

Summer Fun

Schools out, and the cottage is lovely, but holidays are all about family fun and there’s no better place to start than a visit to see the Castle Howard Skelves, faerie-like creatures that live in the treetops of Skelf Island causing mischief and mayhem. This adventure playground has rope bridges, treetop nests, climbing equipment and slides. Join the Skelves on an adventure like no other. There’s also a downloadable activity sheet for children to complete.

It’s fair to say that with over 1000 acres to roam, the unique landscape of Castle Howard Estate is made for exploring (whatever the age of the intrepid explorer). Lakes, waterways, fountains, temples, monuments, a statue trail, and endless, marvellous woodland walks to discover. Boat rides, picnics, rambles and bike rides. Ice cream and giggles, fun and games… memory-making family times at their absolute best.

For those who fancy a change of scene, then there’s no need to travel far as York, Malton, the North York Moors and traditional seaside towns are all within an hour’s drive. Mix it up a little to enjoy museums, shopping, markets, steam trains and a day at the beach.

Staying in a holiday cottage at Castle Howard for summer fun with family is something to treasure forever, which is why families return year after year. There’s even the opportunity to own a holiday home here at the fabulous Castle Howard Lakeside Holiday Park. There couldn’t be a more perfect investment in family life!