Top 4 Castles around Howsham
Best castles around Howsham, North Yorkshire, offer a blend of historical architecture and expansive parkland. The area is characterized by its rural setting, featuring significant stately homes and unique architectural follies. These sites provide insight into centuries of English heritage, from Jacobean residences to 18th-century landscape designs. The region's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved structures and planned estates.
Best castles around Howsham
- The most popular castles is Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, a historical site that is…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Castle Howard Obelisk
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Castle Howard Gatehouse (The Temperance Hotel)
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Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower
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Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins
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Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).
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Easily accessible as a public footpath runs north/south right past the tower. One of a number of towers that radiate east/west from the Castle Howard Gatehouse (aka Temperance Inn).
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The original Gate House, with its famous pyramid, was built in 1719 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect who designed Castle Howard itself. Its flanking wings plus building were built in the 1750s, at which time it was referred to as The New Inn and served people journeying from York to Castle Howard and the Vale of Pickering. By the 1850s, the Gate House had become an inn and an hotel. By the late 19th century, it was developed into The Temperance Hotel, where the ninth Countess of Carlisle would accommodate women and children from the industrial belt of the North to help them to escape "urban drudgery".
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An interesting folly (pretending to be medieval) and a tower within the Castle Howard grounds. These are mock fortifications - fascinating! There are great views from here towards the village of Welburn.
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The Obelisk, raised in 1714-15, carries two sets of inscriptions. The first, in Latin, commemorates the victories of the 1st Duke of Marlborough. The second, on the west side is in English, was composed in 1731 when much of the building and landscaping had been completed. It was written with posterity in mind and is the clearest statement possible of the 3rd Earl's aspirations for his family.
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Castle Howard is enormous! It doesn't conjure up Brideshead but is well worth seeing in its own right. The formal gardens, extensive grounds and house are each worth seeing separately.
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Large ruin of a quadrangle castle that you can actually hire for outdoor events. It's a very cool ruin, and makes for a great picnic stop along your way.
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Plenty to see in this huge estate, many quiet roads and great trails, lots of scope for stealth camping
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical architecture can I expect to see at castles near Howsham?
The area around Howsham features a blend of architectural styles. You'll find magnificent Baroque architecture at Castle Howard, a grand stately home. There are also Jacobean elements, such as at Howsham Hall, and unique Gothic follies like the Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, which offers a glimpse into 18th-century landscape design.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Howsham?
Yes, several sites are great for families. Castle Howard, with its extensive gardens and parkland, is a popular choice. The Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower and Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins are also tagged as family-friendly, offering interesting historical exploration and picnic opportunities.
What are some unique historical sites or follies near Howsham?
Beyond traditional castles, you can explore unique architectural follies. The Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower is an interesting folly within the Castle Howard grounds, designed to look medieval. Additionally, the historic Bambro' Castle in Howsham, though a folly, served as a summer house and observatory, showcasing late 18th-century estate aesthetics.
Can I find viewpoints near the castles around Howsham?
Yes, the Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower offers great views towards the village of Welburn and the surrounding landscape. The expansive parklands of estates like Castle Howard also provide scenic vistas.
What is the best time of year to visit castles near Howsham?
Many attractions, such as Castle Howard, have their houses open from March until November, while gardens are often accessible for longer. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the extensive parklands and gardens. However, visiting in autumn can provide beautiful foliage, and some sites may offer unique winter events.
Are there any ruins to explore near Howsham?
Yes, you can visit the Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins. This large ruin of a quadrangle castle is a cool spot for exploration and makes for a great picnic stop.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Howsham offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, such as the 'Riders Lane and River Derwent loop from Kirkham Priory,' or more challenging routes like the 'Howsham Wood and Kirkham Priory loop.' There are also mountain biking trails available. For more details on routes, you can explore the easy hikes, general hiking, and MTB trails guides around Howsham.
What facilities are available at the castles and historical sites?
Castle Howard offers facilities including tea rooms and cafes. There's a small take-away coffee shop under the arch into the courtyard, and a proper cafe within the courtyard. Howsham Hall, while not a traditional castle, operates as a luxury event venue with furnished rooms and butler service.
What is the history behind the Castle Howard Gatehouse?
The Castle Howard Gatehouse, with its famous pyramid, was originally built in 1719 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect of Castle Howard. It later became an inn and hotel, known as The Temperance Hotel in the late 19th century, where the Countess of Carlisle provided accommodation for women and children from industrial areas.
Are there any unique natural features or parklands to explore?
Yes, the parkland surrounding Howsham Hall was laid out in the 1770s by the renowned landscape architect Capability Brown and features three Giant Sequoia trees. Castle Howard is also set amongst extensive gardens and parkland, offering beautiful natural surroundings to explore.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites around Howsham?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical architecture, expansive parklands, and unique follies. The magnificent stately homes like Castle Howard are often highlighted for their grandeur and gardens. The Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins are enjoyed as a cool ruin and a great picnic spot, while the Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower offers fascinating mock fortifications and views.
Most popular attractions around Howsham
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