Visit from 27 July to 4 September and join in our packed programme of summer activities, which will have you running wild in our gardens.

Rusticus adventure walks lead you on a journey of imagination as you discover wildlife characters on these interactive, magical journeys through our gardens.

Taking place every weekend plus Bank Holiday Monday meet the sleepy dormouse on In The Undergrowth, cast spells with the woodland wizard on Magical Woodland and save the creepy crawlies from the butterfly catcher in Wildlife Warning.

Sessions run at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm and last approximately 45 minutes, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Put your wildlife camera skills to the test as Steve Race, award winning photographer from Yorkshire Coast Nature, leads children on an expedition through the gardens to snap the bugs, birds, butterflies and more that call Castle Howard home.

Bring along a smart phone or digital camera and join Steve as he shows you how to capture pictures of the animals you might find in your own gardens. Selected dates in August, spaces are limited and are available on a first come first served basis - workshops at 11am, 12noon and 1.30pm.

Meet a range of magnificent birds of prey and get up close to them as York Bird of Prey Centre join us for handling days with a chance to learn more about these beautiful animals and have a hold too. Sundays and Wednesdays from 31 July, drop in between 10am and 4pm with talks at 12.30pm and 2pm.

Our talented face-painters will bring nature to life with colourful designs every weekend and Bank Holiday Monday. From countryside favourites such as butterflies, badgers, rabbits and owls to the more exotic tigers, zebras, fairies and wizards. Be transformed with a full painted face or add some sparkle and glitter with miniature butterflies and flowers delicately fluttering around your eyes. Small charge applies.