Bus Blogger Lewis: A Day Trip to Castle Howard and York

A Day Trip to Castle Howard and York with North Riding 

A visit to Castle Howard, one of England’s most stunning stately homes, is a must for anyone exploring Yorkshire. Earlier this year, East Yorkshire introduced the 81 service, connecting York, Castle Howard, and Malton. The journey itself is a delight, offering picturesque views of quaint villages and beautiful countryside.

Living in Hull, we began our journey by catching the X46, which, alongside the X47, runs every 30 minutes between Hull and York. With comfortable seats, tables, and Wi-Fi, the trip to York was quick and enjoyable, leaving us time for a cup of tea before boarding the 81 bus to Castle Howard. At just £2 each, the journey was a bargain and set the tone for a wonderful day out.

The Journey

The adventure truly begins as you board the North Riding bus. The route takes you through the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, with rolling hills, charming villages, and lush green fields unfolding before your eyes. The bus meanders past stone cottages and historic churches, offering a genuine taste of rural England.

Depending on the season, you might witness fields of golden crops or trees ablaze with autumn colours. The bus’s leisurely pace allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery. As you near Castle Howard, the estate’s grand facade emerges, hinting at the splendour that awaits.

Exploring Castle Howard

Upon arriving at Castle Howard, the grandeur of the estate is immediately apparent. This Baroque masterpiece, built over 300 years ago, is surrounded by over 1,000 acres of breathtaking gardens and parkland. We were greeted by the enticing aroma of food from the Courtyard Café, where we enjoyed a delicious English breakfast before exploring the house.

A charming Kelly-car, reminiscent of a tractor pulling a train of carriages, took us to the house’s entrance.

The House

Stepping inside, we were transported back in time. The house’s interiors are opulent, with lavishly decorated rooms, ornate ceilings, and an impressive collection of art and antiques. The Great Hall, Turquoise Drawing Room, and Long Gallery, lined with portraits of the Howard family, were particularly striking. The Chapel, with its stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork, is not to be missed.

Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the house’s history, the Howard family, and the various films and television series shot here, including “Brideshead Revisited.” The knowledgeable and friendly staff made the experience even more enriching.

The Gardens

For us, the gardens were the highlight of the visit. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, they include formal gardens, woodland paths, lakes, and fountains. The Walled Garden bursts with colour in the summer, while the Rose Garden is a fragrant retreat. After touring the house, we strolled down to the Great Lake for an ice cream, even enjoying a boat ride—a perfect activity on a warm day. We then followed the well-signposted paths through Ray Wood, discovering the Pyramid before emerging at the Temple of the Four Winds, which offers panoramic views of the estate.

Continuing our leisurely walk around the South Lake, we admired the swans gliding across the water before reaching the Atlas Fountain, a magnificent centrepiece with dramatic sculptures and water features.

Tony Cragg Exhibition

Until 22nd September, Castle Howard is hosting a contemporary sculpture exhibition featuring ten installations scattered throughout the grounds. These sculptures add an extra layer of interest to the visit, especially for children. The Castle Howard leaflet, complete with a map, provides descriptions of each piece.

Family Activities

Castle Howard is an excellent destination for families, with plenty to keep children entertained. The Adventure Playground, with its climbing frames, swings, and slides, is a favourite among younger visitors. During school holidays, the estate often hosts special events, from outdoor theatre performances to nature trails, ensuring fun for all ages.

Dining and Shopping

No visit to Castle Howard is complete without sampling the local fare. The Courtyard Café offers light lunches, cakes, and refreshments, all made with locally sourced ingredients. For a more substantial meal, the Fitzroy Restaurant serves up delicious dishes in an elegant setting.

Before leaving, we took the time to browse the gift shop, which is filled with unique souvenirs, including locally made crafts, books, and gourmet treats.

The Return Journey

After a day of exploration, we boarded the North Riding bus for a relaxing journey back. We decided to stop off at Monks Cross Shopping Park – for which the 81 bus calls into, where we enjoyed some retail therapy at stores like Primark, River Island, and JD Sports.

Monks Cross offers a vibrant shopping experience just outside of York, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. We caught East Yorkshire’s York Locals 12, back to York City Centre for our connection to Hull. The comfortable seats on the EastRider bus made it easy to relax and watch the world go by on the way home.

Catching the North Riding bus to Castle Howard is a delightful way to explore one of England’s finest historic estates. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply looking for a peaceful day out, Castle Howard offers something for everyone.