Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Christmas at Castle Howard
Step into a world of festive enchantment at Castle Howard's 'Christmas at Castle Howard' event. The iconic stately home is transformed into the magical realm of Oz, offering a truly unique Christmas experience. Visitors can explore immersive installations, enjoy special moments with Father Christmas, indulge in festive afternoon tea, and discover unique gifts. This event promises a fantastically festive day out for all.
What to Expect
The House transformed into the magical world of Oz.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is £7 per car, pre-booked with tickets, with higher charges possible on the day if not pre-booked. Blue badge holders park for free and have dedicated spaces. Members receive one free parking space per booking. Parking is generally free for Courtyard and House/Gardens visitors, but charges may apply for specific events.
- Accessibility: Castle Howard offers various accessibility initiatives, including Calm Sessions (fewer people, reduced sound/lighting effects) and Relaxed Performances (relaxed attitude to noise, fewer sound effects). BSL Interpreted sessions are available. Touch boxes are provided for sensory engagement. Specific information for wheelchair users, including stair lift access and manual wheelchair loans, is available. The Father Christmas in the Castle experience is not wheelchair accessible, but Santa's Grotto in the Boathouse is.
- Pets: Pet-friendly (dogs on leads in gardens)
Other Christmas Events Near York
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, christmas enthusiasts
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting, historic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (primarily indoor activities, but some outdoor elements)
Special Events & Promotions
- Oz-tastic installations
- Special moments with Father Christmas
- Late-night tours (Oz Twilight Tour)
- Christmas shopping
- Delectable afternoon tea
- Wreath Making Workshops
- Santa Paws event
- Universal Credit and Max Card discounts
- Complimentary tickets for essential carers
- Babe in arms tickets
Location
Event Details
Duration
Variable, with specific event durations ranging from 40 minutes to several hours.
Ages
All ages (with specific recommendations for Father Christmas in the Castle event)
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- WonderPhil
Organizer
Castle Howard
Food & Drink
Multiple catering facilities available, including the Christmas Marquee (pizza, turkey rolls), Courtyard Café, Coffee Shop, and a trailer at the Boathouse and North Front for hot drinks and snacks. Christmas Afternoon Tea is also available.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular events like Father Christmas in the Castle, as they often sell out quickly.
- Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid the largest crowds, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
- Check the accessibility information carefully if you have specific mobility needs, as some areas of the House have limited access.
- Allow ample time for your visit, as there are multiple experiences and areas to explore, including the House, Gardens, and various shopping and dining options.
- Dress warmly and in layers, as parts of the experience involve outdoor elements or unheated spaces, and queues can form outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Christmas opening times?
The House, Grounds, and Outlets have variable opening times over the festive period. It's recommended to check the 'Opening Times and Prices' page for the most up-to-date details, as the House often closes earlier than the Gardens.
How much are Christmas tickets?
Ticket prices vary depending on the date and time, ranging from £23-£39.50 for adults and £11.50-£19.75 for children. A 5.5% booking fee applies to online/phone bookings. Tickets purchased on the day may be subject to a 10% increase.
Can I pay with cash?
No, Castle Howard is a cashless venue and only accepts card payments.
Do I need to book Christmas tickets in advance?
Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended as walk-up tickets are subject to availability and entry cannot be guaranteed during busy periods.
Are dogs allowed at Castle Howard during Christmas?
Yes, dogs on leads are welcome in the Gardens. There is also a special 'Santa Paws' event where dogs can meet Santa Paws in the Garden Centre.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.