February Half-Term Outdoor Fun at Castle Howard

The achingly beautiful Baroque masterpiece that is Castle Howard is always a good idea (whatever the weather) and has fast become this family’s happy place ‘up north’. 

In 2026, they are celebrating the legacy of Sir John Vanbrugh, whose vision created this iconic place and whilst much of the history is lost on my youngest child, Florence, 4, the Gardens and Skelf Island Adventure Playground certainly garnered her approval and was where we spent most of our time (the house is currently closed for the winter).

My often hard to please two teens love it all too whether they’re strolling around the grounds, playing with their little sister at Skelf; spotting peacocks with their vibrant plumage, riding the train, or, of course, dining at the consistently excellent Courtyard Cafe.

My personal highlight, along with the peacocks, whenever we visit (unsurprisingly having written a bestselling children’s book on Greek myths) is the Atlas Fountain which sits at the centre of the South Parterre and overlooks the house in almost a protective fashion.

The fountain was commissioned by the 7th Earl in 1850 from the landscape gardener William Andrews Nesfield and the sea gods that surround Atlas were carved by the sculptor John Thomas and transported from London by railway would you believe.

In 2010 it underwent vast restoration and is simply breathtaking to observe. 

The Gardens are equally majestic. Home to foliage, woodland, statues, temples and a lake adjacent to Skelf Island, there is so much to see and do.

Located on its own island and reached by a spectacular rope bridge, the Skelf adventure playground encompasses zip wires, climbing frames, slides, nets and challenging climbing equipment and best of all, it’s suitable for all ages so even I had to have a go on the swings too! 

You can toast marshmallows bought from the adjacent cafe/shop (or your cold fingertips) on an open fire; cross the lake by boat or by bridge and enjoy endless fun on swings, slides and climbing frames in between sandwiches and ice creams if you’re peckish.

Florence never wanted to leave! 

And of course, nothing beats a (surprisingly) sunny al fresco lunch, and in February no less, on Valentine’s Day to boot, so we felt very lucky indeed! 

With dishes conjured from the Estate’s fare and local suppliers, we relished perfectly cooked fish and chips, a tangy Caesar Salad, and cheese burger of epic proportions and unparalleled taste. Only Florence had room for dessert (vanilla ice cream) which might just be a ‘family first’ here!

We left with our lungs full of fresh air, our tummies totally satisfied and our hearts full! The perfect Valentine’s Day.

We fittingly love Castle Howard!