Experience the opulence of 18th-century England at Castle Howard, a grand film-star castle now offering luxury hospitality packages for the modern era.
A Living House with a New Purpose
Castle Howard, one of England’s grandest and most beautiful country houses, is considering offering high-end hospitality packages to its wealthy fans. The custodians of the 18th-century mansion, who have been restoring it for five years, believe that hosting paying guests will not only generate income but also bring the house back to life.
Located in North Yorkshire, England, Castle Howard is a grand 18th-century palace built by the Marquess of Carlisle.
Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor, it features an impressive blend of baroque architecture and stunning gardens.
The castle's interior boasts intricate plasterwork, ornate furnishings, and an extensive art collection.
Visitors can explore the state rooms, chapel, and library, as well as stroll through the picturesque parkland and gardens designed by Charles Bridgeman.
A Rich History and Architecture
Castle Howard was commissioned by Charles Howard, the third Earl of Carlisle, in 1699. The house is renowned for its stunning architecture, conceived by Sir John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor. Visitors can marvel at the notable buildings, as well as acres of sweeping parkland filled with lakes, fountains, statues, temples, and pyramids.
From Wartime Girls School to Luxury Getaway
One of the bleakest moments in the house’s history was a 1940 fire that destroyed over 40 rooms. However, thanks to income from ‘Brideshead Revisited’ , the reconstruction of the Garden Hall and New Library was made possible. The latest restoration project has also brought back some of the original features, including the recreation of the lost Tapestry Drawing Room.
A New Era for Castle Howard
Nicholas Howard, a descendant of Charles Howard, believes that hosting high-end hospitality packages is essential to keep the house alive. ‘We’ve always referred to this as a living house,’ he said. ‘It’s not a museum. And if you’re going to call it a living house, you’ve got to make it a living house.’ The couple hopes to offer these luxury experiences no more than twice a year, ensuring that the day visitors’ numbers remain high.
A Taste of Luxury
Guests who stay at Castle Howard will have the opportunity to experience life in an 18th-century canopy bed, take breakfast in a room with Canaletto paintings on the wall, and enjoy Meissen plates. The house’s Long Gallery has been transformed, and the Tapestry Drawing Room is once again filled with its original tapestries, woven by John Vanderbank in 1706.
A New Chapter for Castle Howard
As the house embarks on this new chapter, it will be interesting to see how these luxury hospitality packages will enhance the visitor experience. With its rich history and stunning architecture, Castle Howard is sure to remain a popular destination for those seeking a unique and luxurious getaway.
