Raby
When
14th November - 3rd January
Where
Raby Castle
Timings
11:00am - 4:00pm
Pricing
From Adult £25 | Concession £24 | Family (2 Adults 2 Children) £60 | Children (1-15yrs) £8 | Raby Members £8 | Historic Houses Members £22
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Raby Castle is opening it’s doors for Christmas for the second time in five decades to showcase the castle decorated for Christmas, designed by custodian and creative director, Lady Barnard.

This will be a chance for visitors to experience how the Vane family enjoyed Christmas at the Castle and see the rooms beautifully decorated as they would have been in the past, the family’s traditional gifts, flowers and sumptuous Christmas trees.

Your journey will take you through eleven carefully selected rooms on the ground floor, telling the story of Christmas Day at the castle, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking to an evening of elegant dining and Christmas games, featuring an impressive table setting ready for a spectacular festive meal.

This is a self-led tour with wonderful volunteers in each one of the eleven rooms. Be sure to take a moment to stop and chat with our volunteers as they have some extra special stories to tell you about Raby Castle at Christmas.

Your Ticket Includes:

    • Marvel at the splendour of the Raby Castle at Christmas with a self guided Tour
    • Spot the majestic Deer roaming in the picturesque parkland
    • Enjoy the magic, frosty Walled Gardens
    • Festive photo opportunities across a magical setting

Christmas inside a Castle

Step inside the magnificent Raby Castle and experience the magic of Christmas in a truly historic setting. For only the second time in five decades, the Castle is opening its doors during the festive season, giving visitors a rare opportunity to see the interiors transformed for Christmas. Beautiful decorations, traditional Christmas trees, flowers and elegant festive displays bring the Castle to life and offer a glimpse into how the Vane family celebrated Christmas in years gone by.

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Christmas Through the Eyes of the Castle Household

This will be a chance for visitors to experience how the Vane family enjoyed Christmas at the Castle and see the rooms beautifully decorated as they would have been in the past, the family’s traditional gifts, flowers and sumptuous Christmas trees.

Your journey will take you through eleven carefully selected rooms on the ground floor, telling the story of Christmas Day at the castle, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking to an evening of elegant dining and Christmas games, featuring an impressive table setting ready for a spectacular festive meal.

Book Now

NEW for 2026 – Discover Life ‘Downstairs’

For the first time, visitors can venture beyond the grand family rooms to discover how Christmas was celebrated by the Castle’s household staff. Explore the spectacular medieval kitchen and servants’ hall, offering a fascinating glimpse into Christmas ‘behind the scenes’. This new addition provides a different perspective on festive life at Raby and brings the stories of the wider Castle household into the experience.

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Discover Hidden Treasures & Hear Stories 

The Christmas experience will showcase never-before-seen objects from Raby Castle’s collections, from exquisite table decorations to historic toys and games that were once treasured Christmas gifts. A bespoke introductory film in the House Keeper’s Sitting Room will set the scene before visitors begin their journey. Along the way, knowledgeable volunteers will be stationed throughout the rooms, sharing fascinating stories and details about Christmas at Raby that you may not discover from the displays alone.

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Deer Park and Walled Gardens

Tickets for Raby Castle at Christmas include all day access to the beautiful grounds surrounding the magnificent castle. Take a peaceful winter stroll through the gardens, explore the historic Deer Park and soak up the seasonal atmosphere.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does my ticket include?

  • Access to Raby Castle at Christmas between, 11am – 4pm
  • Access to vast Deer Park where red and fallow deer roam, 10am – 4pm
  • Access to the stunning 5 acre Walled Gardens, 10am – 4pm
  • Photography Opportunities

Is this a self led tour?

This is a self-led tour with wonderful volunteers in each one of the eleven rooms. Be sure to take a moment to stop and chat with our volunteers as they have some extra special stories to tell you about Raby Castle at Christmas.

I am a Raby Member – are these tickets included in my Membership?

Raby Castle at Christmas is a special event and all visitors must purchase tickets as these are not included with your membership. Our loyal members do receive a significent discount with tickets priced from £7.20 to £8.80.

How much are tickets?

Ticket prices for an adult range from £22.50 to £27.50 with premium dates at a higher cost.

I am Historic House Member do I need a ticket?

Yes, this is a special event outside of an HH membership; tickets are  £22.50 to £27.50.

Is there car parking?

There is free car parking at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. Please follow signage or instructions from staff to parking areas once you arrive.

Will there be food and drink available?

The Vinery or Garage Cafe will be open during your visit.

What is the address of Raby Castle?

Raby Castle, Staindrop, Darlington, Co Durham, DL2 3AH

What is the cancellation policy?

There are no refunds or cancellations permitted. Please be sure that when you make your reservation, you know exactly which date and which time slot you wish to secure. If you have an extremely unfortunate circumstance, a ticket transfer will be considered subject to availability and an administration charge will apply. The event will still take place in rain or snow and weather cancellations are extremely rare.

How do I contact Raby Castle?

You can call the office at Raby Castle on 01833 660202 between the hours of 9am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, or email admin@raby.co.uk

Raby Castle at Christmas festive days out in the north east of england
Raby-Castle-at-Christmas-Christmas-Events-in-North-East-England-2026-Raby-Castle-Park-Gardens
Raby Castle at Christmas festive days out in the north east of england
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