When

Selected dates: 15th November – 4th January

Where

The Plotters' Forest

Timings

10:00am - 4:00pm & 4:00pm- 7:00pm

Enchanted Christmas Trail at The Plotters’ Forest – Day & Evening Experiences

Step into a world of festive wonder this Christmas with the Enchanted Christmas Trail at The Plotters’ Forest, located within the stunning surroundings of Raby Castle, Park & Gardens. Twinkling lights, joyful music, and magical touches throughout the woodland make this a must-visit family experience, perfect for families.

Daytime Enchanted Trail

Selected dates: 15th November – 4th January
Entry slots: 10am–4pm | Access to Deer Park & Gardens: 10am–4pm

November 2025 – 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th & 30th
December 2025 – 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th, 31st

January 2026 – 1st,2nd, 3rd, 4th

Wander through our winter wonderland during daylight hours and enjoy the Christmas Trail with full access to The Plotters’ Forest play equipment, plus a special festive treat for children at the end of their adventure.

Your Day Ticket includes:

Entry to the Enchanted Christmas Trail
2 hours of play in The Plotters’ Forest Adventure Playground
A festive treat for each child
Full-day access to the Deer Park and Walled Gardens
Please note: This experience does not include meeting Father Christmas.

Book Day Tickets

Evening Enchanted Trail

Selected dates: 3rd December – 3rd January
Entry slots: Between 4pm–7pm | Duration: 30 minutes

December 2025 – 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd

As night falls, the trail transforms into a glowing woodland of twinkling lights and festive music — a truly magical atmosphere under the stars. Children will receive a special gift as they complete their journey through the illuminated trail.

Your Evening Ticket includes:

Entry to the Enchanted Christmas Trail (Evening Edition)
A festive treat for each child
Please note: Night tickets do not include access to play equipment, the Deer Park, or Walled Gardens, and do not include meeting Father Christmas.

Book Night Tickets

A beautifully lit Christmas trail winding through trees at The Plotters’ Forest, with lanterns, lights, and festive décor.

A glowing woodland trail lit with fairy lights and festive decorations at night, creating a magical Christmas scene at The Plotters’ Forest.

Children walking along a magical woodland path at dusk, surrounded by glowing fairy lights and festive decorations.

What's on

Upcoming events & activities

The story of Raby and the Railways Exhibition and Talk

Open Daily | Talk Wednesdays 1.30pm

Coal, Canals and Carriages: The Story of Raby and the Railways Location: Entrance Hall, Raby CastleDates: 28th June – OctoberOpening Times: Daily, 11am–4pmEntry: Free with a Raby Castle, Park and Gardens ticket – whenever the Castle is open Step into the golden age of travel with Raby and the Railways, a special exhibition celebrating the […]

Castle Encounters with the Curation and Archives Team

Wednesday - Friday

A Special Insight into the History and Collections of Raby Location: Meet at the Castle PortcullisDates: Every Wednesday to FridayTime: 14:00Entry: Free with a Raby Castle, Park and Gardens ticket Join a member of Raby’s dedicated Curation and Archives team for a closer look at the fascinating, lesser-known stories hidden within the castle’s historic collections. […]

Gardeners’ Walk & Talk

Daily at 12noon

Gardeners’ Walk & Talk at Raby Castle – Daily at 12pm Led by a member of our expert gardening team, this complimentary garden tour offers a relaxed and informative experience, perfect for visitors interested in historic English gardens, horticulture, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the Raby Estate. Discover the beauty and heritage of […]

Guided Walks at High Force Waterfall

Every Sunday at 11am

Guided Walks at High Force Waterfall We invite you to join us for a one of our guided walks to the beautiful High Force Waterfall. Our friendly Welcome Host’s will lead you on a leisurely stroll, sharing enchanting tales of the folk and fables that have made this area so special. Along the way, our […]

Bumble Bee Safari Trail

Daily in September

Looking for a fun family day out in the North Pennines National Landscape? Visit High Force Waterfall this summer and enjoy the Little Bees’ Trail — a brand-new, nature-inspired activity for children, included free with your waterfall admission. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of England’s most spectacular waterfalls, this self-guided trail takes little […]

The Plotters’ Forest Down the Rabbit Hole Trail

Weekends in September

Down the Rabbit Hole Trail This summer, embark on a thrilling journey down the rabbit hole. As you enter a curious world of mystery and wonder, keep your eyes open, find the hidden letters in the trees to reveal a secret word and look out for the wonderland objects as you journey through the winding […]