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 14^th and Sunday 15^th 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 or Plotters’ Forest ticket and an accompanying child.

Fun for the whole family is in store during an action-packed day out at the County Durham lifestyle destination, including the chance to step inside the 14th century castle and join a complimentary guided tour in the afternoon or explore at your own leisure to learn all about the history, legends and secrets of Raby Castle.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates said: “We want Raby Castle, Park and Gardens to be a place where families can create cherished memories together. We hope that Dads and father figures who join us here this Father’s Day can enjoy some precious time with their loved ones and find a little sanctuary surrounded by nature and history.”

The Plotters’ Forest woodland adventure playground will be open so explorers can enjoy unbridled, adrenaline-fueled fun and let their imaginations run wild. Scale the high walkways and towers, get lost amongst exhilarating views throughout the Christmas tree plantation, tackle ground-level forest trails and race to the top before slipping down the slide.

Raby’s tractor and trailer rides will also be running throughout the weekend, giving everyone a chance to pause and take in the breathtaking views of the 14^th century castle and the stunning surrounding landscape.

Herds of Red and Fallow Deer can be spotted across the Deer Park too and deer feeding will be taking place during the Father’s Day celebrations.

After working up an appetite, families can treat themselves to lunch at The Vinery Café, which offers panoramic views of the High Vinery Garden and the Castle, serving homemade dishes and treats inspired or sourced from the beautiful Raby Estate.

Raby will also be hosting a barbeque especially for Dad’s on Father’s Day weekend, serving locally sourced produce, including longhorn beef from the estate.

Last minute Father’s Day gift-giving opportunities lie in the Coach House, a stunning retail and exhibition space which opened last year within Raby’s leading lifestyle destination. Artisan crafts, homeware and local produce can all be found inside the thoughtfully curated retail space.

To get the best ticket price, it is highly recommended to pre-book online. Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest, Deer Park and Gardens are £14 for adults, £11 for children (ages 4-15) or £50 for a family ticket (two adults and three children). Under fours go free and children also go free into Raby Castle with a valid Plotters’ Forest, Park & Gardens Ticket.

For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, Father’s Day celebrations and to book tickets please visit: www.raby.co.uk/events/dads-go-free-this-fathers-day/

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 unfolds—sometimes with gentle warmth, sometimes with the bracing intensity typical of the North Pennines—Raby’s wildlife has begun to stir in striking and hopeful ways. Marked by global observances such as Earth Day, World Curlew Day and Endangered Species Day, spring at Raby is a powerful reminder that conservation is not a distant concern, but a daily practice grounded in place.

World Curlew Day – 21 April
The unmistakable call of the curlew echoing across the moorlands is a cherished symbol of spring in Upper Teesdale. With curlew populations declining across the UK, the work being done across Raby land to protect their breeding and feeding grounds is more important than ever. Through careful habitat management, curlews here are still given the space they need to thrive — a small but significant conservation success.

Earth Day – 22 April
This year’s Earth Day theme, Our Power, Our Planet, resonates deeply at Raby. Power, here, lies in the energy of a waterfall, the quiet strength of woodland, and the vital work of insects in the soil and amongst the grass. From sourcing local food to restoring key habitats, the estate is committed to reducing its footprint and giving back to the land that sustains it.

60 Years of the Pennine Way – 24 April
The Pennine Way celebrates six decades of inspiring walkers and nature-lovers. With parts of the trail passing close to High Force and the surrounding estate, Raby remains proud to support low-impact, slow travel and to welcome visitors at High Force seeking connection with the natural world.

International Dark Sky Week – 21–28 April
At night, the landscape reveals a different kind of beauty. Raby is home to some of England’s darkest skies, offering exceptional views of the stars. Through Stargazing Suppers at High Force, visitors are invited to experience the stories, wildlife and celestial wonders that share our skies.

Endangered Species Day – 16 May
Efforts across the estate continue to support rare and threatened species, including black grouse, lapwings and water voles. Sustainable farming, habitat restoration, and ongoing monitoring all play a role in helping wildlife return and thrive.

Beneath the Surface: Adders, Eels and Insect Revival
Raby’s spring season has also brought a series of striking ecological developments:

• Adders Up: Monitoring efforts are helping to understand and protect populations of Britain’s only native snake—a valuable indicator of moorland health.
• European Eels: In partnership with Tees Rivers Trust, the estate is supporting eel surveys to better understand the plight of this critically endangered species.
• Insect Hatch: An unusually large spring emergence of mayflies, caddisflies and damselflies has delighted naturalists and signals improved river health.
• Tadpoles in the Tees: Uncommonly warm water and low flow have created ideal conditions for tadpole development, offering an enchanting and hopeful sight for visitors and researchers alike.

Looking Ahead to Summer
With nature now firmly awakened, Raby is preparing for a vibrant summer season of engagement and discovery:

• Insect Week (23–29 June)
• Great Big Green Week (8–16 June)

Every Visit Makes a Difference
Whether walking the Deer Park, enjoying a meal at the High Force Hotel, or marvelling at the night sky, each visit to Raby Estate contributes to a shared effort to protect and celebrate this extraordinary place.

Spring 2025 is shaping up to be a season full of life, learning and renewed connection. Raby remains committed to keeping its landscapes wild, welcoming, and full of wonder — for wildlife and for all who come to experience it.

Little ones can go free into Raby Castle in County Durham during the May half term holiday.

Children with a valid Plotters’ Forest, Park and Gardens ticket can step inside the medieval fortress for free during the school holidays from Saturday 24^th May to Sunday 1^st June.

A complimentary Family Explorer Guided Tour and Castle Quest Trail will also be available to take youngsters on an adventure through the historic walls.

Julie Biddlecombe-Brown, curator at Raby Castle said: “With so many fascinating stories and incredible people that have all played a part in Raby’s legacy, we want to share our history with the next generation and provide children who are visiting Raby Castle, whether it’s for the first time or even the tenth time, with an unforgettable experience at no extra cost. Soaking up the pivotal historic events, learning about key figures who called Raby Castle their home and exploring the grand rooms inside the medieval fortress all await families during the May half term.

“We hope offering free entry to the castle keeps this as accessible as possible and we can’t wait to see children become inspired by Raby’s story. And it’s not just the castle that is offering added value during the May half term – there are lots of daily activities taking place throughout the castle grounds that are included in the admission price to provide our visitors with so much extra to enjoy during their time with us.”

Outside the Castle walls, families can discover a selection of activities with nature at their heart, all provided as complimentary experiences for an exciting day out. The Little Gardeners’ Trail in The Plotters’ Forest woodland adventure playground will get youngsters off screens and looking skyward with horticultural clues hidden around the woodland.

Tractor and trailer rides will also be available throughout the long bank holiday weekend alongside the 31^st May and 1^st June weekend, taking the young and young-at-heart across the stunning Deer Park where they can spot the Red and Fallow Deer.

Inspiring the next generation, there will be a complimentary children’s seed planting station for that added extra to take home and watch grow it grow as spring turns to summer, whilst another trail hidden in the restored 300-year-old Walled Gardens will have families bird spotting and learning all about bees.

Local singer Charley Penman will also be performing live in the Walled Gardens’ Amphitheatre with a special one-hour set at 1pm on both Saturday 24th May and Monday 26th May, providing visitors with a chance to sit back and marvel at the views of the Castle whilst enjoying Charley’s stunning acoustic vocals.

Children with separate pre-purchased tickets can also join the Victorian workforce this May half term in an exciting behind-the-scenes experience. On selected dates, children and adults step back in time on a fascinating journey and discover what it took to keep Raby Castle running in a series of hour-long experiences, guided by the butler.

Whilst families are at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, they can relax and enjoy delicious food and drink at The Vinery Cafe, whilst soaking up the panoramic views of Raby Castle or visit the new Garage Café, located just outside the Walled Gardens’ entrance, and choose from its ten flavours of ice-cream produced by Yorkshire-based Brymor Dairy.

Take a moment to visit the Coach House and peruse the curated selection of homeware and gifts displayed on reclaimed furniture from across the estate in Raby’s beautiful retail space.

The theme of nature continues over at Raby Estates’ High Force Waterfall, just a 30-minute drive from Raby Castle. New for the May half term, the Butterfly Quest is a fun and interactive way to explore nature and enjoy the beauty of High Force, as families help Clover the caterpillar on her journey to become a butterfly and achieve her dream of flying.

Trail sheets can be collected at the Visitor Centre, helping youngsters tick off all eight of Clover’s friends that are waiting to be found on this new adventure.

To get the best ticket price, it is highly recommended to pre-book online. Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest, Deer Park and Gardens are £14 for adults, £11 for children (ages 4-15) or £50 for a family ticket (two adults and three children). Under fours go free. Children with a valid Plotters’ Forest, Deer Park and Gardens ticket will get free entry into Raby Castle during their visit.

Tickets to the Victorian Workforce experience are £12.50 for adults and £10.50 for children and will need to be purchased online in advance. Two dates are available, Thursday 29^th and Saturday 31^st May: www.raby.co.uk/events/victorian-workforce-activity/

Tickets to High Force Waterfall can also be purchased on site or online. Admission is £3.95 for adults, £2.45 for children (aged 4-15) and under fours are free.

For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and High Force Waterfall, please visit: www.raby.co.uk

Raby’s role in mapping the USA: exciting Dixon discoveries in the Archives

Did you know famous surveyor Jeremiah Dixon began his career working for the Raby estates? In this blogpost we find out more, with our Archivist Joseph Reed.

Jeremiah Dixon (1733-1779), famous Cockfield-born surveyor and scientist, is one of South Durham’s best known historical figures. The Mason-Dixon Line was drawn in the 1760s by Jeremiah, working with Charles Mason, to resolve a historic border dispute between Pennsylvania and Maryland. The Line became one of the most famous and significant political boundaries in the World, dividing the Southern and Northern states of the USA in the American Civil War.

Raby’s role in Dixon’s early career as a surveyor is relatively little known, but new research and discoveries during cataloguing of the archives at Raby Castle have identified that Dixon began his career as a surveyor working right here in Raby Park. Joseph Reed, Raby’s Archivist, working with Dixon researcher Jonathan Peacock, was able to make the recent identifications of a number of previously unknown plans by Dixon. Although possible partly through a comparison of Dixon’s artistic style and handwriting, the key to the most important discoveries lay within the archives themselves.

Joseph explained the challenges along the way: “It is very difficult to be certain when identifying a work to a particular individual if they didn’t sign it, and Jeremiah didn’t sign all of these plans. These discoveries were only possible through some good fortune and keen detective work. The first plan (1) identified was one hiding in plain sight; it does not look at all like Jeremiah’s usual artistically beautiful survey plans as it is a working survey drawing of Raby Park.

“We knew Dixon had undertaken a survey of the park because the corresponding documents had survived (2). Hundreds of surveys of parts of Raby’s estates have been taken over several centuries, as a key part of land management, but only a few of the actual measurement records of all of those surveys have survived in the archives. It just so happens that one of those few is for this plan, and for some reason the land agent recorded on the papers that Jeremiah Dixon had undertaken the survey.

“We presumed the plan itself was long-since lost or destroyed. I was looking for plans which showed Raby gardens (for a recent exhibition on Raby’s Walled Gardens) and I recognised the numbers from Dixon’s corresponding survey documents which I had photographed a few weeks earlier.

“When it came to the second plan (3), initially I noticed that aspects of it closely resembled the newly-identified Dixon plan, and it appeared there may be some kind of connection between the two. The plan also exhibits some other tell-tale signs of Dixon’s beautiful draughtsmanship, including fine drawing and exquisite calligraphy. The story might have ended there, with no further evidence to link the plan to Dixon. The key discovery came when I spotted an entry in the financial ledgers for the commissioning of the drawing of two plans from Jeremiah: ‘1759, Dec 20th: Jere Dixon – Drawing two Plans a greater & Less of Raby Castle Park.'”

Joseph called on the expertise and opinion of Jonathan Peacock, who has been researching Jeremiah Dixon for fifteen years. Jonathan facilitated the major 2013 exhibition on Jeremiah Dixon at the Bowes Museum, and has travelled to America undertaking research and lecturing on Dixon. Jonathan commented on seeing the plans and associated papers: “With more than 20 maps drawn by Jeremiah over nearly 20 years, one can clearly see the honing of his skills as a surveyor and cartographer. It is particularly exciting to see these early maps, which extend the data-base of known work by Jeremiah.”

Joseph added: “These remarkable discoveries have only been possible through significant progress in cataloguing Raby’s archives. After a number of years’ work to complete a survey of the archives’ contents, efforts are now being focused on digging ‘below the surface’ to understand the contents of the records, and make new discoveries and reveal stories yet to be told. This is a really exciting time for Raby’s archives.”

About the significance of these recent discoveries to our understanding of Dixon’s life and work, Jonathan remarked: “his contribution to the Age of Enlightenment is assured, and his consummate artistry matches that of any of the members in this extremely artistic and talented family.”

These newly identified plans, along with other materials from the Dixon family’s long association with Raby and the Vane family, will be shown by the Archivist at a dedicated ‘Exploring the Archives’ session to coincide with the 4th of July. More details for the event can be found here: Exploring the Archives: New Dixon Discoveries

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 18^th 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 from sofas, bistro sets and dining furniture.

This well equipped and versatile outdoor living space encourages us to make the most of our gardens all year round. Using traditional, hardy materials like solid teak, steel and all-weather wicker creating a spectrum of styles to suit all landscapes. Choose from smart dining furniture and relaxed sets for lounging, as well as parasols, lighting and outdoor cushions to complete the space.

You will find the Longmeadow sofa, Cheltenham dining set, Compton sofa and Harrington bistro alongside, a range of accessories including cushions, candles, pots and hurricane vases within the Conservatory.

This space will be open daily from 12 – 3pm, we look forward to welcoming you.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens recently hosted a special event to celebrate its new partnership with Bamford, a nature inspired lifestyle and wellness brand which launched in 2004.

The County Durham lifestyle destination is the first stockist of Bamford in the North East of England, and Bamford’s range of skincare and its spa collection – from candles, room diffusers and hand creams to pillow mists and indulgent gift sets – are available to purchase from The Coach House Shop set within the grounds of Raby Castle.

The Estate’s beautifully curated shopping destination located in an 18th century Coach House opened last year, and Bamford is the latest brand to feature inside the restored heritage building which has become a must-visit retail location. The launch event took place inside The Coach House Shop with the chance to meet Bamford’s ambassadors, Lou and Eva.

Stephanie Goss, retail manager said: “Bamford has always been an aspirational brand which correlates with Raby’s vision of organic produce and sustainable approach. Their signature Geranium hand wash smells incredible and complements our celebration of the garden and great outdoors.

“Raby is hosting a Spring Garden Fair in May and I’m sure the Bamford collection will be popular amongst the many visitors attending. We are seeing repeat customers come back to sample the ever-growing collection of sustainable body care.”

The addition of Bamford’s nature inspired collection coincides with the retail destination also unveiling a new outdoor living space, where visitors can peruse plants, pots and outdoor accessories.

“Everyone is looking forward to those first signs of spring and are desperate to get their outdoor furniture looking great with beautiful outdoor place settings and big pots, spilling over with colourful plants and blooms. We hope people might find something to complement their garden here from Raby’s new plant and outdoor living range displayed throughout the beautiful Coach Yard. There could be no better inspiration than a visit to our stunning five-acre Walled Gardens to get you enthusiastic about gardening at home,” added Stephanie.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a leading lifestyle destination with opportunities to shop local produce, discover unique brands, enjoy dining experiences at The Vinery Café, reconnect with nature in the Walled Gardens and parkland and to discover the unique history inside the magnificent 14th century castle, creating the perfect relaxing day out for families, groups and friends.

For more information about The Coach House Shop at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens , visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/shop/

Raby Castle in County Durham has been invited to join the Treasure Houses of England, a small group of the country’s finest houses, palaces and castles.

The Treasure Houses is a collection of ten important houses across the country dedicated to bringing their history and collections to a wider audience and Raby Castle is now the eleventh member.

Lord Barnard, owner of Raby Castle said: “The castle has a long history – these walls have seen the plotting of the Rising of the North, a Parliamentary stronghold in the Civil War and as the birthplace to the mother of Richard III and Edward IV.

“It is the centre of the largely intact ducal estate of the former Dukes of Cleveland, who built up a significant collection of works of art. My wife and I are determined to make that collection even more accessible.

“It is a tremendous privilege that our family home is now part of the Treasure Houses of England and we look forward to working with and learning from the other ten forward-looking owners and their teams.”

After inheriting Raby in 2016, Lord and Lady Barnard have been committed to opening up Raby more widely and welcoming both local, national and international visitors following a three-year development and restoration programme in which several historic buildings were returned to their former glory. The 18th century Walled Gardens were also remodelled by renowned garden and landscape designer Luciano Giubbilei with Lady Barnard.

Regarding the Treasure Houses of England invitation, Lady Barnard said: “I’m immensely proud that we are standing side by side with such notable houses and collections. My husband’s forebears assembled a wonderful collection within the castle and deeply loved the surrounding countryside. I think it is a worthy feather in the cap for the North East of England.”

Victoria Howard, custodian of Castle Howard and chair of the Treasure Houses Group said: “The Treasure Houses work closely together to benchmark and share best practice as visitor attractions and custodians of natural and built heritage. The properties cover the length and breadth of Britain and we are delighted that Raby has joined this group, following their significant recent developments and investment in their offer to visitors.”

Raby Castle re-opened to the public on Saturday 1st March following its annual winter maintenance and conservation programme to showcase its collection to visitors for the 2025 season and is now welcoming visitors seven days a week for the first time in its history.

Guided tours are available for visitors to gain expert insight into the Medieval, Regency and Victorian interiors alongside Raby’s extensive collection of art, textiles and furniture which dates from the 17th to the 21st century.

Raby Castle, its Deer Park which is home to red and fallow deer and the 18th century Walled Gardens are currently open daily. Raby also hosts a wide variety of seasonal events and workshops throughout the year.

We need your help!

Historic Houses Garden of the Year 2025

The Garden of the Year Award, sponsored by Christie’s, recognises the importance of some of the country’s most spectacular gardens with outstanding horticultural and public appeal.

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for this incredible award, recognising the beauty behind the beautiful 18th Century Walled Gardens, 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.

TO VOTE FOR RABY CASTLE, PARK AND GARDENS

Public voting starts from the 1st April until 31st August 2025.

Group Leisure and Travel Awards – Best Historic Attraction

We’re also honoured to be nominated for the Best Historic Attraction alongside some of the UK’s most iconic sites: Belvoir Castle, Blenheim Palace, Dover Castle, Leeds Castle, Tower of London, and Windsor Castle.

Raby Castle is one of the most impressive intact castles in England, built by the powerful Nevilles in the 14^th century, has been the family home of the Vanes for nearly 400 years. The grounds of Raby Castle have recently completed an ambitious restoration scheme set within the grounds, complete with heritage buildings, remodelled gardens, stylish shopping, must-see events, woodland play and local food that is as fresh as it gets, sourced or inspired from the Estate.  Becoming one of the leading destinations in the North of England, to find out more. 

TO VOTE FOR RABY CASTLE, PARK AND GARDENS

Votes must be received by the deadline of Sunday 27th April 2025 to be counted. The winners will be announced at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards Dinner & Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday 26th June at the five-star Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, London.

Your votes for this magnificent attraction are greatly appreciated.

For the first time in its history, Raby will be hosting an Easter Food and Craft Market over the bank holiday weekend from Friday 18^th to Monday 21^st 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 5^th April and Sunday 27^th 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).