The world went crazy from the release of the film version of the hit theatre show Wicked, and you can enjoy this festive experience based on the original. Something magical is coming to one of our favourite stately homes this December. Yes, the festive season is almost upon us, and if you’re looking for the most exciting Christmas events in Yorkshire, then you’ll want to add this to your calendar as it is always a stand-out experience like no other. Christmas is taking over Castle Howard once again, and replacing Alice’s Christmas in Wonderland is the wonderful Christmas at Castle Howard with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz experience.
Don’t miss out on any of the festive things going on at this year’s Castle Howard experience as the huge house is once again transformed into a magical, creative space where you can let your imagination run wild. The perfect experience for families, couples or a mate date. Let’s explore this fantastic festive L. take on Frank Baum’s much-loved story.
Is Christmas at Castle Howard worth it?
Castle Howard’s most popular Christmas experience is like no other as the house is transformed into a winter wonderland each year. Created by CLW Event Design and Imitating the Dog, a fantastical story is created that immerses you in a different world each year, with no set ever the same. If you’re looking for the best Christmas experiences for 2025, this is right up there with one of the best.
Castle Howard’s Christmas experience has quickly become one of the top events in the calendar, with each room full of delights for the eyes with so much so, you could go more than once and still find something you hadn’t spotted the first time. As well as the brilliant rooms, one of the most impressive highlights has to be the centrepiece of the whole thing, the Christmas tree located in the Great Hall, which is typically around 24 to 27 feet tall and decorated with more baubles, tinsel and glistening lights than it’s possible to count.
Not only that, but each year, once you’ve finished exploring the Christmas experience, they put on a fantastic dining experience with last year’s, including a make-your-own crumble stand. You can also hunt for all things Christmassy in the gift shop to take away a memento from your experience. And of course, the iconic Yorkshire brand Betty’s gets in on the action with an incredible shop full of all your favourite goodies, making the perfect Christmas gifts.
How long is Christmas at Castle Howard 2025 on for?
Taking place from the 13th to the 4th January, Castle Howard’s Christmas 2025 is a wicked and wonderful extravaganza that you won’t want to miss. You have 52 days to make the most of the Wizard of Oz experience, that’s 7 weeks & 3 days or 1 month & 22 days, if you want it put a different way. That’s lots of opportunities for you to make the most of one of Yorkshire’s top winter wonderlands.
Castle Howard’s Christmas experience usually opens around 10am and closes at 4pm or 5pm, depending on the specific day and the experience. To avoid disappointment, you should double-check the website. The last entry time for Castle Howard’s Christmas season is 4:00 PM for the grounds and 3:00 PM for the house
Also, don’t miss Oz Twilight Tour. Join Castle Howard on 28th November, 5th December, 12th December, or 19th December for an exclusive after-dark guided tour of the House, led by the Christmas Design Director. Discover the wonder of Christmas at Castle Howard: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz after hours, as you explore the beautifully transformed rooms in an intimate small group setting. The evening begins with a Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine reception (with non-alcoholic options available) before embarking on a magical journey through this year’s festive spectacle.
Tickets are from £100 per person and include access to the Gardens from opening (9.30am or 10am). Open to guests aged 16 and over, with only 25 tickets available per tour, this is a rare opportunity to experience the enchantment of Castle Howard at Christmas in a truly special way.
Sounds like just the place to get in the mood for the festive season? Head down to the stately home this December and give yourself a Christmas hug. If you want to get in the festive spirit over the period, then head to one of these magical Christmas towns – 8 Of The Most Magical Christmas Towns In Yorkshire To Visit
When do Castle Howard Christmas tickets go on sale, and how much are they?
Castle Howard Christmas tickets are on sale now, and you can book them via the website. Tickets are priced from £23 plus booking fee. If you’re looking to visit, I’d make sure you book early, as they’re sure to be a popular choice for families this Christmas. The website has a key that is colour-coded for the various prices, with off-peak times cheaper if it’s possible for you to go.
Looking for More Christmas markets and events?
If our guide to Castle Howard’s Christmas experience has got you ready for the festive season, which we are sure it has. You can find more inspiration in our HUGE article: 40 Of The Most Festive Yorkshire Christmas Markets And Events To Enjoy This Winter
If you’re looking further afield and want to explore more of God’s own country, then check out our travel section for more information about places to visit across Yorkshire.
Feature Image Credit: Castle Howard’s 2024 Christmas Experience
