Days Out: One giant festive treat at Castle Howard

The spectacular historic house, which is one of the finest in Yorkshire, has gained a reputation for putting on one of the best festive displays in the country – and it’s easy to see why.

Over the festive period, the magnificent interiors are filled with Christmas trees, and tens of thousands of baubles, fairy lights and candles. This year, several trailer-loads of foliage taken from the 10,000-acre estate have also been added to bring a flavour of the beautiful grounds inside.

This year, there’s even a huge gingerbread version of the stately home on display, which took ten people two weeks to make and included 40kg of flour, 15kg of sugar and 18kg of butter.

Created by architectural food experts, Bompas & Parr, it depicts Castle Howard as it was originally designed by Sir John Vanbrugh in 1699, and includes spiced biscuit versions of the Mausoleum and the estate’s railway station – Mary Berry would be proud!

For any last minute presents, head to the estate’s toy shop, farm shop and indoor market where you’ll find all sorts of seasonal goodies, stocking fillers and toys and games for the children. There’s also a fantastic range of kitchenware and festive decorations to give your Christmas dinner table the ‘wow factor’.

Visitors have until Friday, December 23 to experience the Christmas festivities at Castle Howard.

FACTFILE

Address: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA

Opening times: Open daily until Friday, December 23 from 10am, last entry 4pm

Admission: Adults £18.95, children £9.95, family £47.85

Car parking: Free on-site

Telephone: 01653 648333

Website: www.castlehoward.co.uk

More: yorkshire.com