For the first time in its history, Raby will be hosting an Easter Food and Craft Market over the bank holiday weekend from Friday 18th to Monday 21st April.
This new offering for 2025 will be full of market stalls showcasing impressive handmade crafts and unique gifts from local artisan sellers, alongside a vibrant selection of delicious local produce and seasonal treats.
Hosted under the beautiful arched Dutch Barn and within the impressive architectural gem called the Riding School, this four-day market will provide visitors with an opportunity to peruse and sample some of the region’s best delights.
After exploring the market delights, children and grown-ups can take on the Little Eggsplorers Easter Egg Hunt themed trail in The Plotters’ Forest woodland adventure playground, woven amongst the Christmas trees. Spot the clues, admire the new spring leaves on the trees above and race to complete the trail with a reward waiting at the finish line.
Families can also embark upon a nature inspired trail together in the historic Deer Park, where the new organic sculptures will sit in the landscape that has been home to Raby deer for centuries. Follow the trail and perhaps spot the Estate’s red and fallow deer along the way.
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens’ Easter activities will be taking place between Saturday 5th April and Sunday 27th April including the spring animals children’s trail throughout the beautiful gardens and deer park. Alongside this, Raby Castle will be hosting an exhibition in the beautiful conservatory within the Walled Gardens. Focusing on the story and history of the five-acre space, the display will include the recent remodelling which was led by renowned garden and landscape designer Luciano Giubbilei and Lady Barnard.
The exhibition will also highlight how the Walled Gardens have been shaped by the passage of time and the dedicated people who have made them what they are today.
The Castle will be open to the public during the Easter break and visitors can explore one of England’s finest Medieval Castles in all its grandeur. Move through the Housekeeper’s Sitting Room, the Blue Bedroom and Library whilst discovering the history of the fortification which was founded by a Viking King and self-appointed ‘Emperor of the North’.
Visitors looking to turn their time at Raby into a weekend break can spend a night or two at The High Force Hotel, a cosy inn on the Raby Estate which has recently seen several rooms redesigned bringing more colour into guests’ stays. Just a short walk from the magnificent High Force Waterfall, the destination is perfect for couples and families with dog-friendly rooms perfect for four-legged friends.
High Force Waterfall, which is a 30-minute drive from Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, will also be hosting a new woodland trail during the Easter holidays, helping families make the most of being outdoors in nature.
A small entrance fee of £7 for two adults or £11 for a family ticket (two adults and three children) is required to access High Force Waterfall. Tickets can also be purchased from the High Force Hotel on the day. For details, visit: www.raby.co.uk/high-force/
Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest, Deer Park and Gardens are £14 for adults, £12 for children (ages 4-15) or £62 for a family ticket (two adults and three children). Entry to the Easter Food and Craft Market is included in all Deer Park and Gardens tickets, or entry to the market only can be purchased for £2 in advance or £5 on the day (children go free).
