Top 7 Castles around Coneysthorpe
Best castles around Coneysthorpe are intrinsically linked to the magnificent Castle Howard, an 18th-century stately home located just outside York. Coneysthorpe itself is a village within the Castle Howard Estate, situated in the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region offers historical significance and diverse landscapes for exploration.
Best castles around Coneysthorpe
- The most popular castles is Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, a historical site that is an interesting folly within the Castle Howard grounds. It…
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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View of Gilling Castle from The Avenue
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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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From The Avenue, you have a great view of Gilling Castle at its end, but I am afraid there is no access to the grounds: get as close as you can for a good view, but then retrace your steps. The Castle used to be the home of the Fairfax family, but now is a prep department for the Ampleforth College.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main castle attraction near Coneysthorpe?
The primary attraction is Castle Howard, an 18th-century stately home often referred to as a castle due to its grandeur. It features awe-inspiring architecture, world-renowned collections, and 1,000 acres of extensive parkland and gardens.
Are there other historical structures to explore besides Castle Howard?
Yes, you can visit the Castle Howard Mock Medieval Tower, an interesting folly within the Castle Howard grounds offering views towards Welburn. Also, the Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins provide a large ruin of a quadrangle castle that makes for a great picnic spot.
What kind of gardens can I find at Castle Howard?
Castle Howard boasts diverse gardens, including an 18th-century Walled Garden with heritage roses, delphiniums, and a carp pond. There's also an Ornamental Vegetable Garden, the impressive Atlas Fountain and South Parterre, and Ray Wood, known for its prestigious collection of rhododendrons and rare botanical finds.
Are there family-friendly activities at Castle Howard?
Absolutely. Children can enjoy a lakeside adventure playground and free children's trail leaflets for exploring the gardens. The estate also served as a filming location for *Bridgerton* and *Brideshead Revisited*, which can be an interesting point for families.
Can I visit the interior of Castle Howard?
Yes, visitors can explore the house at their own pace, with knowledgeable guides available to share its history. The house is typically open from March until November. Tickets cost £19.95 per adult.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and surrounding area?
The gardens at Castle Howard are open from 10 am to 5 pm, and the house from March until November. The summer months are ideal for experiencing the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the Walled Garden, while Ray Wood offers beauty throughout the seasons with its diverse plant collections.
Are there walking trails near the castles?
Yes, the area around Coneysthorpe and Castle Howard offers several easy hiking routes. For example, you can find trails like the Temple of the Four Winds – Castle Howard loop or the Coneysthorpe Chapel – Coneysthorpe Banks Wood loop. You can find more details on these routes in the Easy hikes around Coneysthorpe guide.
What cycling opportunities are available near Coneysthorpe's castles?
The region offers various cycling routes. You can explore options like the Castle Howard – Castle Howard Obelisk loop or the Great Lake (Castle Howard) – Castle Howard loop. For more detailed routes, check out the Cycling around Coneysthorpe guide.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the castles?
Yes, Castle Howard has tea rooms and a proper cafe in the courtyard. There's also a small take-away coffee shop under the arch into the courtyard for quick refreshments.
Is Slingsby Castle open to the public?
No, Slingsby Castle, which was actually a Jacobean mansion, is not open to the public due to its state of disrepair. However, you can still admire its impressive ruins from the road.
What is the historical significance of the Castle Howard Gatehouse?
The Castle Howard Gatehouse, with its famous pyramid, was built in 1719 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect of Castle Howard. It served as an inn and hotel, and later as The Temperance Hotel, providing respite for women and children from the industrial belt.
What makes the Howardian Hills area special for visitors?
The Howardian Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering sweeping vistas, woodlands, and monuments like the Temple of The Four Winds with stunning 360-degree views. Its location is also convenient for exploring other North Yorkshire attractions like the North York Moors National Park.
Most popular attractions around Coneysthorpe
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