A summer day out with secret adventures

This summer Castle Howard’s famous adventure playground with treetop nest structures connected by rope bridges, slides, nets, and climbing equipment will be brought to life with theme activities during the holidays
Summer fun at Castle Howard - perfect for all agesSummer fun at Castle Howard - perfect for all ages
Summer fun at Castle Howard - perfect for all ages

Castle Howard is situated 20 minutes from the centre of York, nestled in the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The House and Grounds boasts over 300 years of history and is one of the top attractions in and around Yorkshire.

The Grounds plays host to many events throughout the year, from live concerts to their popular Festival of Dogs, as well as family activities across the summer holidays and their famous Christmas events

This summer, families can visit Castle Howard and take advantage of their summer offer with just a Grounds ticket as the Skelves, the magical creatures that inhabit Skelf Island, Castle Howard’s legendary adventure playground return for Spellbound at Skelf Island: Tales of the Tawny Owl, from July 30 – September 4.

Enjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summerEnjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summer
Enjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summer

Skelf Island, the estate’s legendary Adventure Playground is named after the historic site Castle Howard sits on, Henderskelfe. Throughout the school holidays, you might encounter the faerie-like creatures that live in the canopies and crooks of Skelf Island, known as Skelves, they’re a friendly and curious bunch that loves to play!

For centuries the Skelves have inhabited a secret world, over the water from Castle Howard, causing mischief and mayhem high up in the trees, interacting with birds and protecting wildlife. They’re curious about humans too and want to explore and play with them. Join them in the treetops of Yorkshire’s most magical adventure playground, Skelf Island.

Ingenious treetop nest structures connected by rope bridges, slides, nets, and climbing equipment will allow the Skelves to take young visitors on an adventure like no other.

What’s more, Castle Howard’s official summer partner is Little Vikings and Little Vikings Family Pass Holders can receive 20% off their admission price.

Experience Yorkshire’s best adventure playground this summer enjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summerExperience Yorkshire’s best adventure playground this summer enjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summer
Experience Yorkshire’s best adventure playground this summer enjoy treetop fun with magical creatures this summer

Why not become a member and make great days out a regular part of your summer with annual family memberships starting from £130 which includes unlimited admission to the House and Grounds and many more benefits?

You can access Skelf Island and our themed summer activities with a valid Gardens and Grounds ticket.

To find out more click here