The wider picture
Castle Howard, a magnificent stately home located in North Yorkshire, England, has long been celebrated for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Designed by the renowned architect and playwright Sir John Vanbrugh, Castle Howard is considered one of his most poetic and enchanting creations. As we approach the 300th anniversary of Vanbrugh’s death, the estate has launched a timely exhibition titled ‘Staging the Baroque: Vanbrugh at Castle Howard,’ which opened on March 26, 2026.
This exhibition not only marks the anniversary of Vanbrugh’s passing but also serves as a tribute to his lasting impact on British architecture during the English Baroque period. Vanbrugh, who died on March 26, 1726, is buried in St. Stephen Walbrook in the City of London. His work is characterized by boldness, theatricality, and monumentality, elements that are vividly present in the design of Castle Howard.
The exhibition features a rich collection of original letters, 18th-century editions of Vanbrugh’s plays, and engravings from Vitruvius Britannicus, providing visitors with a comprehensive insight into Vanbrugh’s life and works. Among the highlights is a large-scale model of the Castle Howard landscape, which allows attendees to appreciate the estate’s architectural beauty against its picturesque surroundings.
As part of the exhibition, renowned artist Es Devlin is set to unveil a new installation in the Temple of the Four Winds in June 2026. This addition is expected to enhance the experience for visitors, inviting them to engage with Vanbrugh’s vision in a contemporary context. Nicholas and Victoria Howard expressed their sentiments, stating, “It was Vanbrugh’s vision that brought Castle Howard to life, and now the House has the honour of celebrating its creator.”
Roz Barr, an architect involved in the exhibition, emphasized the significance of the event, saying, “This exhibition celebrates the life and works of John Vanbrugh and the beauty and significance of his work at Castle Howard.” She hopes that the exhibition will inspire visitors to explore the grounds and appreciate the impact of the house, with its grand elevations and imposing dome, against a backdrop of trees, water, sculpture, and other buildings such as the Temple of the Four Winds.
Castle Howard has also recently undergone renovations, including the restoration of the Tapestry Drawing Room, which suffered damage from a fire in the 1940s. This restoration, alongside the exhibition, highlights the ongoing commitment to preserving the estate’s rich history and architectural integrity.
As the exhibition unfolds, it is part of a broader programme for Vanbrugh’s tercentenary year, which includes talks, performances, and artist responses. Sir Charles Saumarez Smith remarked on the growing interest in Vanbrugh’s work, stating, “Five years ago, I thought no-one was interested in Vanbrugh. Now, people are recognising his originality.” This renewed appreciation for Vanbrugh’s contributions to architecture underscores the relevance of the exhibition and the importance of Castle Howard as a cultural landmark.
As the exhibition progresses, observers are keen to see how it will influence public engagement with Vanbrugh’s legacy and the architectural heritage of Castle Howard. The event promises to be a significant moment in celebrating the life and works of one of Britain’s most influential architects.