Acres of unexpected elegance complete with a fascinating history.

Raby Castle

Raby is without doubt one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England. Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family, it has a long history.

The Walled Gardens

The 18th century Walled Garden has been recently remodelled by renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei with Lady Barnard. Together, they have laboured to create a stunning 5-acre vision, including the estate’s well-known yew hedges and the iconic Raby fig. In doing so, they have retained the gardens’ distinctive spirit; one in which the character of Raby and its rich history is deeply embedded.

Deer Park

With 200 acres to explore and a range of wildlife on our doorstep, there is plenty to see and do across Raby Park. Discover our walking routes and meet our herds of red and fallow deer.

The Plotters' Forest

Join in with the fun and go on an adventure to The Plotters’ Forest playground surrounded by nature, outdoor play just stepped up a notch!

Eat

The Vinery proudly present handcrafted dishes and treats inspired or sourced from the beautiful Raby Estate. Once home to thriving grapevines, these historic buildings are steeped in heritage. Today, we honour this legacy by carefully crafting each item with care and dedication, in collaboration with the estate's skilled gardeners.

Shop

The Coach House Shop is a charming haven for those seeking stylish homeware, contemporary gifts and so much more. Nestled within the historic grounds of Raby Castle, this boutique store offers a curated selection of treasures that combine modern flair with timeless elegance.

What’s on this May

🌿 Little Gardeners Trail in The Plotters’ Forest | Weekends and May Half Term

🔔 Children Join the Victorian Workforce | 31st May

🌿 May Half Term | 24th May – 1st June

Book Now

Until 29th June 2025 with a valid Plotters' Forest Ticket

Kids go FREE into Raby Castle

Raby Castle is known for its impressive historic timeline, let your children revel in the medieval adventure and complete our complimentary Castle Quest Trail.

Tickets

24th May - 1st June

May Half Term

We have so much in store this May Half Term, including complimentary activities all included within your ticket cost – adding that extra value for the whole family!

The Plotters Forest Little Gardeners Trail and Seed Planting Station
Bumblee Bee Safari Trail in the Walled Gardens
Children go Free into Raby Castle with a Plotters’ Forest Ticket
11am Storytelling in The Plotters Forest
12pm Children’s Crafts in the Yurt
1pm Family Explorer in the Castle
2pm Seed Planting in The Plotters’ Forest
2.30pm Castle Guided Tour
10am – 12pm, 1 – 3pm | 31st May and 1st June Tractor and Trailer Rides

Book Now

Daily

The Garage Café

Ice Cream, Hot Drinks and Snacks

This seasonal café is themed around its pit stop past and serves a delicious range of ice cream, hot drinks, sandwiches and snacks.

The Conservatory | Daily | 12 - 3pm

Raby X Neptune

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens are delighted to collaborate with Neptune a British home and lifestyle brand, known for timeless style, thoughtful design, and enduring craftsmanship. This summer, Neptune’s outdoor living and gardens collection will be showcased in the iconic Conservatory situated in the stunning 18th century walled gardens with views of the historic Raby Castle.

Neptune makes garden furniture with timeless design, sustainably sourced materials and longevity at the forefront. The collection spans relaxed sun loungers and sofas, bistro sets and dining furniture.

Join us this June for a fun-filled farming experience!

Open Farm Sunday – 8th June

On Saturday, 8th June, farms up and down the country will be opening their gates for Open Farm Sunday, offering visitors the chance to experience everyday farm life first-hand and learn more about how the food on our plates is produced.

We’re excited to invite you to a day packed with engaging activities, learning opportunities, and family fun here at Raby.

Find Out More

We need your help!

Vote for Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award.

This is down to a public vote, your votes for this magnificent attraction are greatly appreciated.

To Vote

All Year Round

Raby Memberships

If you’re planning to be a regular visitor to Raby Estate, it makes perfect sense to buy a Raby Membership. This means you can call in as often as you like – plan visits with the family, or just call in on a whim when you have an hour or two to spare and enjoy the stunning surroundings across the full Estate.

Find Out More

also part of the Raby Estate

High Force Hotel and Waterfall

Just a short 30 minute scenic drive from Raby Castle, you will find the magnificent High Force Waterfall – one of the biggest in England! Adjacent to the falls, is the country retreat of High Force Hotel and Restaurant. A perfect place to extend your day…

Tickets

Sunday 29th June

Classic Car Show

Join us for a fantastic day of Classic Cars at Raby Castle, in partnership with Durham Automobile Club. Enjoy a display of vehicles from the 1950s to modern classics, with awards for each class, all set in the beautiful Deer Park.

Treat yourself to sausage and bacon sandwiches from 8am to 12pm, and Raby Longhorn Beef Burgers from 12pm to 4pm.

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated return of our ever-popular Harvest Market in August 2025!

Held in the stunning Riding School and Dutch Barn, expect live music, local produce, delectable food, and unique gifts for all the family here at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

Find Out More

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What's on

Upcoming events & activities

Spring Awakening Offer

Tuesday 1st April to Monday 30th June

Spring Awakening – Now is the perfect time to book your stay at High Force Hotel! From 1st April to 30th June, enjoy 15% off our Dinner, Bed & Breakfast package with the exclusive code SPR25D.

Guided Walks at High Force Waterfall

Every Sunday

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 […]

Castle Encounters

Wednesday - Friday at 2pm

A special insight into the history and collections of Raby. Join a member of our dedicated Curation and Archives team every Wednesday to Friday at 2pm to take a closer look at the lesser-known stories hidden within the castle’s collections. From a sneak peek into what goes on behind the scenes to protect […]

May Half Term Happenings

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

Families, join us this May Half Term for a whole host of Spring-time fun here at Raby Castle Park & Gardens. Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June The Plotters’ Forest The Plotters’ Forest is an immersive outdoor playground located in a magical Christmas Tree Plantation here at Raby Castle, Park & Gardens. Join […]

The Butterfly Quest

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

The Butterfly Quest at High Force Waterfall Open daily | 10am – 4pm Join Clover the caterpillar on her journey to become a butterfly at High Force Waterfall! Along the trail, you’ll need to find 8 special friends who each help Clover on her adventure. As you explore the beautiful woodlands and streams, keep an […]

Bumble Bee Safari

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

Bumble Bee Safari Children’s Trail Families join us this May Half Term for a Bumble Bee Safari Trail at Raby Castle, Park & Gardens. Soak up the Spring sunshine as you wander through the stunning Walled Gardens, looking out for all of the hidden objects and fascinating facts about bumble bees, ticking them off on […]

Raby Castle	Open Daily, Mon & Tue Guided Tours Only \| Wed - Sun 11am - 4pm
Walled Gardens and Deer Park	Open Daily, 10am - 5pm
The Plotters’ Forest Woodland Playground	Open weekends and holiday periods
The Vinery Café	Open Daily, 10am - 4.30pm
The Garage Café - Ice Cream, Drinks and Snacks	Open Daily, 11am - 4.30pm
The Coach House Shop & Exhibition	Open Daily, 10am - 4.30pm

Opening Times

Raby Castle

The Walled Gardens

Deer Park

The Plotters' Forest

Eat

Shop

What’s on this May

Kids go FREE into Raby Castle

May Half Term

The Garage Café

Raby X Neptune

Open Farm Sunday – 8th June

Vote for Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

Raby Memberships

High Force Hotel and Waterfall

Classic Car Show

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated return of our ever-popular Harvest Market in August 2025!

What's on

Spring Awakening Offer

Tuesday 1st April to Monday 30th June

Guided Walks at High Force Waterfall

Every Sunday

Castle Encounters

Wednesday - Friday at 2pm

May Half Term Happenings

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

The Butterfly Quest

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

Bumble Bee Safari

Saturday 24th May - Sunday 1st June

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