Raby

The North of England’s Latest Lifestyle Destination

‘The Rising’ is an ambitious development at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. This supports the Estate’s ambition to share its rich and varied history with a wider audience, support ongoing maintenance and continue its vital programme of conservation.

Think acres of unexpected elegance, complete with heritage buildings, remodelled gardens, stylish shopping and local food that’s as fresh as it gets.

Imagine a backdrop of unspoilt rural landscapes and one of the finest medieval castles in England. A destination with a difference, where visitors of every generation can discover County Durham’s thrilling past and promising future.

Prepare for a place where heritage is celebrated, where the beauty lies in its simplicity, and where the welcome is always genuine.

Boldly ambitious

The schemes name ‘The Rising’ the combines Raby’s rich history as the home of one of Britain’s most notorious plots, the Rising of the North, with a promise of growth, energy and ambition.

And The Rising is nothing short of ambitious, both in terms of scope and scale. Within the setting of Raby Castle, it comprises three heritage buildings, two thoughtful new constructions and a visionary walled garden comprising three striking sections: East, formal and West.

All aspects of the scheme bear the distinctive Raby trademark of simple, honest design combined with the Estate’s characteristic energy and spirit.

A not-so-secret garden

The 18th century Walled Garden has been 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.

Beautifully framed views and an unrivalled air of tranquillity have put Raby on the map of notable English gardens, and will delight horticultural novices and enthusiasts alike.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens - Rising

A character-packed venue

The Riding School is an 18th century architectural gem reimagined as a flexible 500sqm event space, retaining plenty of its individual character along the way.

We’ve kept the aspects that make The Riding School unique – textured walls, authentically irregular lines shaped by centuries of use, and solid timber beams – but added underfloor heating, subtle space dividers and a neutral colour palette so that you can truly make the space your own.

Perfect for parties, conferences and exhibitions, The Riding School’s distinctive features and stunning parkland setting make it an unmatched venue for all kinds of special events.

Event Spaces, Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

Latest News

Raby Estates Tenants wins best Farming Documentary

We are pleased to announce that ‘Farming on the Edge’ has won the best documentary award at the Sunderland Short Film Festival. This short film was produced by the North Pennines National Landscape team in partnership with Film on the Brian. ‘Farming on the Edge’ follows Paul & Jen Johnson, Raby Estate tenants, for a […]

Dads go free into Raby Castle this Father’s Day weekend

A barbeque, tractor ride and free entry to a medieval castle await Dads this Father’s Day weekend at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. On Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June, Dads can enjoy free entry into Raby Castle, one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England, with a Park and Gardens […]

Nature Watch: Spring 2025 at Raby Estate

A Season of Awe, Action and Environmental Awareness Raby Estate welcomes the arrival of spring with a renewed sense of wonder and responsibility. From the thunder of High Force to the stillness of upland meadows, this remarkable landscape offers not only a place to visit but a place to cherish and protect. As the season […]

Sign up to the Raby Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter today to receive weekly updates, exclusive offers and priority booking on our seasonal events.