Following its previous festive triumphs, transforming into Narnia and Neverland, Castle Howard has truly outdone itself for Christmas 2024 with its enchanting Alice’s Christmas Wonderland. This magical journey is set within the walls of the iconic 300-year-old house, one of Britain’s most celebrated stately homes, designed by the visionary architect Sir John Vanbrugh in the early 18th century.
Castle Howard’s great hall, often lauded as John Vanbrugh’s masterpiece, now hosts a breathtaking 27-foot Christmas tree. Decorated with thousands of ‘looking glass’ ornaments inspired by Lewis Carroll’s whimsical tale, the tree is a feat of engineering, installed by a team of 22 using a specialist winch system beneath the hall’s soaring dome.
Immersive festive spectacle at Castle Howard
The wonderland theme extends beyond the great hall, transforming the house with intricate set pieces, stunning floristry, mesmerising projections, and bespoke lighting and soundscapes. Northern theatre company ‘Imitating the Dog’ has contributed to the atmosphere with immersive projections and original soundscapes. Unique musical compositions, interspersed with voiceovers and poetry, guide visitors through each room. A special highlight includes Castle Howard’s owner, Nicholas Howard, reciting Carroll’s All in the Golden Afternoon, setting the tone for this festive journey.
The creative vision comes from CLW Event Design, led by Charlotte Lloyd Webber and Adrian Lillie, who began work on the project in January. The installation process, completed over two weeks, involves around 30,000 baubles, with a focus on sustainability, incorporating recycled materials and eco-friendly options like glass and paper.
Beyond wonderland: festive highlights
This year brings even more festive delights, including the first-ever pop-up Bettys shop in the stable courtyard. Known for its iconic tea rooms and Christmas treats, Bettys adds a quintessential Yorkshire charm to the celebration. Guests can also enjoy Mad Hatter-hosted afternoon teas, the courtyard café’s seasonal winter menu, and the farm shop’s Christmas food-to-order service.
Outdoors, visitors can sip hot chocolate by the marshmallow fire pit or pick out a British-grown Christmas tree at the garden centre. Castle Howard’s commitment to creating a festive wonderland is evident in every detail.
An historic landmark with modern magic
Castle Howard, completed in the early 19th century, has long been a symbol of architectural brilliance and historic grandeur. Its 1,000-acre grounds and opulent interiors have served as the backdrop for film and TV adaptations like Brideshead Revisited, as well as countless events. Now, with Alice’s Christmas Wonderland, it continues to blend its historic charm with modern creativity, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each Christmas season.
A community effort
Visitor attraction director Abbigail Ollive emphasised the collaborative effort behind this year’s event:
“We have pulled out all the stops this year to make Alice’s Christmas Wonderland our most magical yet. The festive surprises, from Bettys to bespoke soundscapes, create an unforgettable experience. We are grateful to our sponsors, LNER and North York Moors National Park, for their support in making this event inclusive and welcoming for all.”
Castle Howard’s seasonal workforce has grown by 130, supported by 200 invaluable volunteers, demonstrating the dedication that goes into delivering this magical experience.
Whether it is the dazzling tree in the great hall, the immersive wonderland experience, or the festive treats in the courtyard, Castle Howard’s 2024 Christmas offering promises to be a truly unforgettable celebration of the season.
Article based in part on a press release
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