A must visit – Raby Castle & Gardens.

‘Raby is without doubt one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England.’

Raby Castle and Gardens have always been a firm favourite of mine, having visited since childhood. However, it has undergone a recent transformation, developing the gardens, as well as opening new areas such as the Plotters’ Forest, The Vinery, Riding School and Dutch Barn, without losing any of it’s charm.

Owned by Lord and Lady Barnard, the Castle has been a presence in the North East since the 14th Century and home to the powerful Neville family, particularly that of Cecily Neville, Grandmother of Kings. Centuries later, it was the epicentre of the plotting of the Rising of the North. Find out more about the history of Raby Castle here.

Fast forward to modern day, it is a welcoming place, encouraging sustainable development and accessibility for all. 

Raby is easily accessed from Darlington, Barnard Castle, Durham and further afield. 

If you are a regular visitor, it is really worth purchasing a Raby Membership. This is a brilliant way to access the Castle, Park and Gardens and also gets you a discount in the stylish shop – you can spend an awfully long time looking at the gorgeous pieces for your own home!

Benefits of a membership include the following benefits for a whole year:

• Admission into Raby Castle (The Castle is open seasonal March – October)
• Admission into The Walled Gardens and Deer Park at Raby Castle all year round
• Admission to The Plotters’ Forest during the holiday period and weekends (excluding special events)
• Admission to High Force Waterfall all year round (excludes parking)
• 10% off at The Vinery and Coach House Shop at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens
• 10% off at the High Force Hotel and Kiosk
• Guest Pass to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, once a year.
• Priority Booking Period for Christmas Events
• Exclusive Members Only Events
• Discount on selected Special Events

The Walled Garden.

Always a firm favourite of mine, especially in late Spring and early Summer, when the roses are fit to burst with their heady scent and the hum of the bees fills the air. Ancient Yew hedges break the garden into sections; each with their own unique character and charm. With exquisite views of the Castle and Deer Park,  a definite serenity surrounds you as you can explore at your leisure. 

Remodelled as part of the recent developments, Lady Barnard worked with designer Luciano Giubbilei to reimagine the 5 acre site. Split into the East Garden, Formal Garden and West Garden, there is something for everyone; from a grass amphitheatre for summer performances, to a cut flower garden, greenhouses and vegetable plots. 

Deer Park.

The Deer Park provides ample space for walks – 200 acres. Visiting the Deer Park is a great way to observe the changing seasons around you and to do a bit of wildlife spotting in the lake and to photograph the Deer, predominantly Red Deer and Fallow Deer. Your four-legged friends can join you on your walks, as long as they are kept on a leader at all times.

You can even download the helpful Raby Estates App for Android or Apple devices which shows you walking routes or various points of interest, which can be filtered according to your taste. It is also useful as a way to spot your nearest facilities, so you are ready for your Raby adventure!

The Plotters’ Forest.

A new woodland hideaway where children can play immersed in nature. The Plotters’ Forest is an immersive playground nestled in a Christmas Tree plantation and offers hours of fun for all.

Tickets allow for a 2 hour play session in the Plotters’ Forest as well as full day access to The Walled Gardens and Raby’s Deer Park.

‘We firmly believe that building a relationship with the outdoors inspires children to be resilient, curious and courageous. In an increasingly digital and risk-averse world, The Plotters’ Forest playground is a setting where little ones – and their imaginations – can run wild.’