Welcome to Castle Howard, a real-life Regency dreamscape tucked deep in the Yorkshire countryside. Today, I’m swapping city streets for stately ones and taking you behind the scenes of one of Britain’s most beautiful filming locations.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Castle Howard has starred in everything from Bridgerton and Victoria to Brideshead Revisited and an Arctic Monkeys music video. It’s the kind of place that feels half royal residence, half romantic daydream, and 100% British grandeur.
The Story Behind the Estate
Despite its name, Castle Howard isn’t actually a castle. It’s a grand Baroque stately home, built over 300 years ago for the Howard family, who still live here today. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, it’s one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in England, filled with sweeping staircases, painted ceilings, and glowing golden light streaming through enormous windows.
If you’re a Bridgerton fan, you might recognise it as Clyvedon Castle, the Duke and Duchess of Hastings’ country estate in the Netflix series. Those dreamy post-wedding scenes? Filmed right here in the Great Hall and gardens.
Great Hall at Castle Howard
Exploring the House
You’ll want at least half a day here and we booked a morning slot to explore the house and spent hours wandering through the elegant rooms.
Inside, it’s pure period drama magic. Marble fireplaces, towering ceilings, glittering chandeliers, and every shade of heritage paint imaginable. I loved the Great Hall, with its blue and gold dome and jaw-dropping frescoes, it’s the ultimate Bridgerton moment.
The bedrooms and long galleries are maximalist heaven: jewel tones, velvet upholstery, and ornate details everywhere. Each room feels like it’s still whispering stories of the aristocrats who once lived here.
Castle Howard
The Gardens and Grounds
Outside, the beauty continues for miles. Castle Howard sits in over 1,000 acres of parkland — with lakes, woodlands, temples, and fountains. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the gardens alone.
The Temple of the Four Winds, perched on a hill, is instantly recognisable from the Bridgerton rain scene — moody, romantic and cinematic in every way.
The walled garden was my highlight — full of roses, lavender, and butterflies in summer. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, breathe, and take in those quintessential English garden views.
Where to Eat
There’s a lovely café on-site with plenty of lunch and afternoon tea options (plus a garden centre and gift shop for souvenirs). I recommend sitting by the window if you can — the light here is just beautiful.
Famous Filming Connections
Castle Howard has quite the filmography. It’s appeared in:
🎬 Bridgerton (as Clyvedon Castle)
🎬 Brideshead Revisited (both the 1981 and 2008 versions)
🎬 Victoria (as Kensington Palace)
🎬 Death Comes to Pemberley
🎬 Arctic Monkeys – Four Out of Five music video
It’s the perfect blend of high society and pop culture — and honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if Taylor Swift filmed something here next.
Castle Howard
Is Castle Howard Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a history lover, a Bridgerton fan, or just looking for a dreamy countryside escape, Castle Howard is one of those timeless places that stays with you long after you’ve left.
It’s grand but welcoming, historic yet alive and every corner looks like it was designed for a camera lens.
Plan Your Visit
📍 Location: York YO60 7DA
🚗 Getting there: Around 30 minutes from York by car (or take a train from London to York, then a short taxi ride).
🕰 Opening times: Seasonal — check the Castle Howard website before you travel.
💷 Tickets: From around £25 for house and gardens.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this little countryside escape from London. If you love elegant architecture, flower-filled gardens, and a touch of Bridgerton fantasy, add Castle Howard to your travel list.
Until next time,
Claire x
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