Castle Howard

Visited with friends for Xmas 2022. Whilst they found time to enjoy the grounds, they were blown away by the Xmas installations inside the house. The attention to detail was superb. The fairytale storylines were captured totally as the theme thoughtfully led you along a wonderful storyline trail. Each room had a steward in and there were also volunteers situated in certain areas. All would happily explain each intallation to you so you didnt miss anything. Whilst this centres around the Christmas theme they also chatted about the history and furnishings to be seen within the rooms when we asked. The selection of produce available within the retail areas and catering is of good quality and priced accordingly. Nothing disapppoints. Staff were found to be friendly, helpful and polite. My friends have all said they would revisit with their own family and friends as they found it an amazing day out.

Dreadful experience though lovely lovely staff who were so helpful.

Disability access was not as it should be and does not meet standards to advertise as 'fully accessible' (see website) Long cobbled area where it was impossible to push a person in a wheelchair.

Stair lift broke down so had to wait at the top of the stairs for the mechanic to repair.

No access to bedroom areas as there was 'important plumbing work being done'. So £25 paid to look around one level of the house and the access for the wheelchair in the grounds meant that was not a possibility for my disabled friend

Train taking visitors to the main hous advertised as running every 20 mins. Driver had one hour for lunch with no replacement.

2 sandwiches left for a party of three in the house cafe.

A sad, shaming, excluding and expensive day for my friend who was visiting from the USA.