Raby
When
Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th and Monday 5th May
Where
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens
Timings
10am - 4pm
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Join us this May Bank Holiday for Raby Castle’s first Spring Garden Fair

Celebrate the garden’s reawakening after its winter slumber as spring breathes new life into the landscape. Watch as petals unfurl and fresh shoots push through the earth, signalling the season’s vibrant return.  Throughout the day, we will be joined by a range of garden experts offering talks and advice to support with any questions you might have about your own garden and also share information about the transformation of Raby Castle’s Walled Gardens.

What’s On Each Day

  • 10:30am | Gardeners Walk & Talk
  • 11:00am | Children’s Seed Planting
  • 11:30am | Construction of The Walled Garden Talk
  • 12:00pm | Cutting Garden Talk with Becky Crowley
  • 12:30pm | Planting for Birds Walk & Talk
  • 1:00pm | The Gardens at Raby: The Vision with Alistair Baldwin
  • 1:30pm | Children’s Seed Planting
  • 2:00pm | Planting for Pollinators Walk & Talk
  • 2:30pm | Saturday & Monday – Floristry Demonstration | Sunday – Talk with The Human Gardener, Sarah Owen Hughes
  • 3:00pm | Children’s Seed Planting

There’s plenty more to discover throughout the day, such as shopping opportunities, live entertainment in the Amphitheatre, tractor and trailer rides, children’s crafts and free-flow access to Raby Castle, Park & Gardens.

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The Vision with Alistair Baldwin

North Yorkshire renowned Landscape Architect and Garden Designer, Alistair Baldwin, will be discussing his landscaping scheme from the tranquillity of the Vinery Terrace to the grandeur of the Dutch Barn. You will gain a deeper understanding of how these spaces came to life and their connection to the castle’s rich heritage. It’s a rare opportunity to hear first hand about the passion behind this magnificent restoration scheme.

Date & Time: Saturday 3rd May at 1:00pm, Sunday 4th May at 1:00pm & Monday 5th May at 1:00pm.

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Swallows and Damsons Floral Demonstration

Join Anna from Swallows and Damsons Florist for an inspiring floral demonstration at Raby Castle’s Spring Garden Fair. Anna will be working alongside garden specialist Becky Crowley, using seasonal blooms freshly gathered from the Castle’s own cutting garden. Don’t miss this opportunity to see natural, garden-style floral design in action within the stunning setting of Raby Castle, Deer Park and Gardens.

Date & Time: Monday 5th May at 2:00pm

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Arthur Parkinson: Enchanting Small Gardens

Step into the world of enchanting small gardens with the celebrated gardener, writer, illustrator, and photographer Arthur Parkinson. Best known for his vibrant, flower-filled plots and his deep love of wildlife, Arthur brings his unique vision to life in this inspiring talk held in the magical setting of the Yurt.

Arthur, who trained at the prestigious Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, will share his passion for creating intimate garden spaces that burst with colour, charm, and biodiversity. Whether you have a tiny terrace, a few pots on a balcony, or a modest backyard, Arthur will guide you through the joys of planting with purpose—filling every inch with blooms that not only delight the senses but also provide vital habitat for bees, butterflies, and birds.

The session will also feature a live floristry demonstration, where Arthur brings his painterly eye and signature style to floral arranging, using seasonal, wildlife-friendly flowers. Discover how to create beautiful, naturalistic displays that capture the spirit of the garden and celebrate the beauty of British-grown blooms.

Perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone who dreams of turning even the smallest space into a lush, living sanctuary.

Date & Time: Saturday 3rd May at 2:00pm

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A day for everyone

Spend time exploring the beautiful Walled Gardens, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy live entertainment in the Amphitheatre. You might even find the perfect plant or two to take home. There’s plenty for families to enjoy as well, from making flower crowns and seed planting in the gardens to hopping on a tractor ride through the scenic Deer Park.

The Raby Spring Garden Fair is a fun filled day for all ages!

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Local suppliers

In the Riding School & Dutch Barn you will also discover a curated selection of local suppliers showcasing unique and fascinating items, perfect for adding a special touch to your home or garden. Explore The Coach House Shop, brimming with inspiration for outdoor living, including stylish table decorations, accessories, plants, and pots.

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Make a Day of it

To make the most of your visit to Raby Castle this spring, we recommend the Spring Garden Fair Ticket with Castle, Park & Garden Entry. This all-in-one ticket gives you full access to explore the magnificent interiors of the Castle, wander through the beautifully restored Walled Gardens, and enjoy the wide open spaces of the scenic Deer Park. It’s the perfect way to soak up the fresh air and seasonal charm.

For younger visitors, The Plotters’ Forest is a must-visit. This immersive outdoor playground, nestled within a magical Christmas tree plantation, is packed with adventure. Little explorers can climb sky-high turrets, dash through treetop tunnels, take in views from the stargazing deck, and finish with a whoosh down the giant slide. It’s the perfect spot for imaginations to run wild.

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The Coach House Shop

This season, The Coach House Shop is celebrating the joy of outdoor living with a brand-new space in the Coach Yard, thoughtfully curated to bring the beauty of the garden into everyday life.

Explore a handpicked selection of seasonal blooms, elegant pots, garden accessories and everything you need for effortless alfresco dining. Let your visit to Raby’s magnificent Walled Gardens spark ideas and enthusiasm for your own home haven—Spring starts here.

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Ticket Options

Ticket options include access into the magnificent 14th century Raby Castle, the 200 acre parklands home to red and fallow deer and the stunning 5 acre walled gardens – there is so much to see and do. We look forward to welcoming you to a fantastic bank holiday weekend at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

To ensure you get the best price, we highly recommend pre-booking online. By booking in advance, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy peace of mind knowing everything is set ready for your visit.

All tickets include entry to the Park & Gardens, Spring Garden Fair and May Artisan Market. Entry for under 4’s is FREE.

Raby Members | £7

With Raby Castle entry:

Adult | £21
Concession (60+) | £20
Children (4-15yrs) | £12
Family (2 Adults & 3 Children) | £62

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Without Raby Castle entry:

Adult | £14
Concession (60+) | £13
Children (4-15yrs) | £9.50
Family (2 Adults & 3 Children) | £45

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A Taste of Spring

Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or something heartier, there’s no shortage of delicious options to enjoy throughout the day.

At The Vinery Café, take a moment to unwind with a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, tempting sweet treats, hot drinks, and light lunch options. The perfect place for a peaceful pause during your visit.

Families visiting The Plotters’ Forest can pop into The Plotters’ Pantry, where you’ll find homemade traybakes, refreshing drinks, and indulgent ice creams – ideal for a tasty break between adventures.

The Garage Café will be serving up a tempting variety of treats, including speciality teas and coffees, snacks, and classic ice creams.

Out by the Dutch Barn, follow the delicious aromas to our Estate BBQ, where we’ll be grilling flavourful produce straight from the Raby Estate. Nearby, a selection of local street food traders will also be serving.

And before you leave, don’t forget to stop by our Coach House Shop, where you can take home a true taste of Raby – including our renowned venison and Longhorn beef, all sourced from the estate.

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Food – Breakfast Pop Up Kitchen

Delicious food options include an Estate BBQ, fresh locally sourced food in The Vinery and ice creams and hot drinks at The Garage.

Bacon Sandwich £5.00
British Bacon, Freshly Baked Bread Bun, Ketchup or Brown Sauce 

Sausage Muffin £5.50
Pork Burger with Garden Herbs, Cheese, English Muffin, Ketchup or Brown Sauce

Vegan Cumberland Sausage Sandwich (V, VE) £5.00
Quorn Cumberland Sausages, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Freshly Baked Bread Bun

*Gluten Free Bread Buns Available

Food – Estate BBQ Menu

Delicious food options include an Estate BBQ, fresh locally sourced food in The Vinery and ice creams and hot drinks at The Garage.

Estate Venison Sausage £8.00
Roe Venison Sausage, Wild Garlic and Caramelised Onion Chutney, Crispy Onions, Brioche Bun 

Estate Aged Longhorn Beef Burger (GF) £7.00
Steak Burger, Swiss Cheese, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Brioche Bun 

BBQ Pork Loaded Estate Longhorn Beef Burger (GF) £10.00
Steak Burger, Swiss Cheese, topped with slow cooked BBQ Pork, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Brioche Bun

Traditional German Sausage (GF) £7.00
Pork Sausage, Garlic Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Crispy Onions, Hot Dog Bun

BBQ Pork Loaded German Sausage (GF) £10.00
Pork Sausage, topped with slow cooked BBQ Pork, Garlic Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Crispy Onions, Hot Dog Bun

Plant Based Burger (GF) (VE) £7.00
Vegan Cheese, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Burger Bun

Plant Based Bratwurst (GF) (VE) £7.00
Vegan Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Crispy Onions, Hot Dog Bun

Children’s Offer £4.00
German Sausage, Ketchup 

*Gluten Free Bread Buns Available

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