I always enjoy going to Castle Howard no matter what time of year, but Christmas at the house is always quite magical and this year is no different. The rooms are all very tastefully decorated some traditional, some modern and some very modern. The lighting is very subdued due to the main curtains being closed and this although causes a few issues for the photographer it creates quite a special ambiance in the house. The colours look beautiful the lights from the flickering candles, the light from the roaring log fires in the rooms all adds to the special experience. One of the centre pieces in one of the rooms this year is a gingerbread model of the house and estate, which has been mounted on a snowy scene with a model train circling the estate. There are some beautiful floral arrangements around the house too. Finally, the chapel, the last area to visit before you reach the gift shop, the lighting in here was improved several years ago and is well worth popping in to admire the décor, the fluted pillars, the ceiling decoration and paintings, it all look amasing. I love coming in here to admire the workmanship, the colours and paintings. It is nice also to be able to sit for a few minutes and reflect on what you have just seen as well as just having some time to yourself to reflect on the things that are personal to you.