Raby

County Durham’s Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has created a new exhibition for 2025 celebrating the history and transformation of its historic five-acre Walled Gardens.

The exhibition ‘The Story of Raby’s Walled Gardens’ takes its name from a quote from the 4th Duchess of Cleveland in 1870, who adored the historic gardens. The small, but charming exhibition is housed within the iconic conservatory in the walled gardens with magnificent views of the castle.

Admission to the exhibition, which shares the story of the Walled Gardens throughout the centuries, is free with a valid Walled Gardens and Deer Park ticket. It also highlights the dedicated people who have worked within the landscape and displays some of the historic garden furniture and tools that have been used to maintain these much-loved spaces over the centuries.

The 300-year-old Walled Gardens have recently been redesigned with heritage and modernity in mind by renowned garden and landscape designer Luciano Giubbilei and Lady Barnard, creative director and custodian of Raby Castle. They reopened to the public in 2024 and this year will be the first season visitors can see the planting scheme completely established and in full bloom.

Julie Biddlecombe-Brown, curator at Raby Castle said: “The exhibition tells the story of the gardens through time and explores the vision of generations of Raby’s owners, who have made them what they are today. Every custodian of Raby Castle has made their mark on the gardens here and we hope the new exhibition conveys the scale of the latest transformation and the part it plays in the Walled Gardens’ legacy.”

As well as the free-to-enter exhibition, which is included in all Park and Gardens tickets at no extra cost, visitors can immerse themselves in the Walled Gardens themselves and witness how Luciano and Lady Barnard have retained the gardens’ distinctive spirit; one in which the character of Raby and its rich history is deeply embedded.

There are three different gardens to discover encased within the historic brick walls including the East Garden, home to a flower garden of grasses and perennials planted above the tiered grass amphitheater; the Formal Garden where guests can see the historic Raby Yew hedge; and the productive West Garden which contains raised beds, a glasshouse and a cutting gardens all set alongside the long, swaying deschampsia grasses, framing views to the castle.

Visitors in 2025 can also time their visit with a trip to the medieval castle itself, open until October, and the Estate’s ancient Deer Park, home to two species of deer which have lived on the Parkland since Norman times.

‘A Never-Failing Delight: The Story of Raby’s Walled Gardens’ exhibition will be available until the end of April for all visitors and is free to enter with a Park and Gardens ticket. A beautiful destination for 2025, Raby Castle is now firmly on the map for English gardens of note.

Daily tickets are £15 for adults, £10.50 for children (4-15 years) and £46 for a family (two adults and three children) to the Park and Gardens, or £22 for adults, £13 for children (4-5 years) and £63 for a family (two adults and three children) for entry to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle

Raby Castle reopens for the 2025 season with a new exhibition and extended opening times

Raby Castle is getting ready to reopen its medieval gates on Saturday 1st March after its winter closure and will now be welcoming visitors seven days a week for the first time in its history.

Following the successful opening of the development in the castle grounds, which provides a leading lifestyle destination for the area, the castle will now be open daily. This expansion provides greater access to one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England.

Claire Jones, head of leisure and tourism at Raby Estates said: “Last year’s development was a pivotal moment in Raby’s history, as the grounds and its best kept secrets were opened up for even more people to enjoy and discover.

“As Raby continues its role to support and encourage local tourism to the area, it feels like a natural progression for the castle itself to be open more frequently during its main season.

“Lord and Lady Barnard are committed to providing visitors with more to see and do during their time with us here at Raby. Last year also saw the opening of the Housekeeper’s Sitting Room, a new room providing visitors with a virtual glimpse into its fascinating history before heading further into the castle. We hope the expanded schedule for 2025 provides people with greater opportunities to discover Raby’s incredible legacy.”

Ready to welcome visitors once again, the 14th century castle has gone through its winter maintenance and conservation programme with close attention paid to the preservation of its extensive collection of art, textiles and furniture which dates from the 17th to the 21st century.

The North East attraction has also expanded its selection of bespoke tours and workshops, from exploring the art of Raby Castle to learning more about the women of Raby – all of which are being led by one of Raby’s in-house team of specialists.

In celebration of another jam-packed season at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, the team has also created a new exhibition for visitors to enjoy.

Focusing on the legacy of Raby’s Walled Gardens, the exhibition tells the story of the gardens through time and explores the vision of generations of Raby’s owners who have made them what they are today. It also includes the recent remodelling of the five-acre space which was led by renowned garden and landscape designer Luciano Giubbilei and Lady Barnard.

The addition will be available for all visitors with a gardens ticket and will be hosted in the beautiful conservatory within the Walled Gardens.

Daily tickets are £22 for adults, £21 concession, £13 for children and £63 for a family to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and are available alongside its membership option, providing access to all on offer at Raby Castle*.

The Raby Estate membership begins from £40 per year for children from 4 to 15-years-old, with family passes starting at £195 (for two adults and three children). Benefits include admission to Raby Castle, the Deer Park, Walled Gardens, The Plotters’ Forest and High Force Waterfall as well as 10% off at the Coach House shop, The Vinery and High Force Hotel.

For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle

*The membership excludes special events.

Children can reach for the Stars at Raby Castle this Half Term

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is launching a cosmic journey in its woodland adventure playground for February half term.

Taking children to new heights, The Plotters’ Forest will have a little astronomers trail allowing explorers to discover the galaxy of planets and stars woven through its magical Christmas tree plantation on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th February followed by Friday 21st February to Sunday 2nd March.

With ground-level forest trails, high walkways and towers, outdoor musical instruments, a giant memory game, spinning signposts, treetop tunnels, talking tubes, a slide and Mischief Mirrors to explore, children can enjoy their outdoor adventure to their heart’s content.

There’s also a dedicated toddler area with mini turrets, climbing equipment, a slide and a chalkboard too.

For those looking to refuel after their astrological adventure, the Plotters’ Pantry will be serving delicious treats which can be enjoyed on its rooftop deck, or there’s The Vinery Cafe, a stylish eatery in the castle grounds overlooking the majestic medieval fortress, for those wanting to sit down and tuck into a hearty lunch.

Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest also include entry to the magnificent Deer Park, which is home to red and fallow deer, where visitors can stretch their legs and soak up the delights of nature, as well as access to the beautiful remodelled Walled Gardens. Families can enjoy a complimentary activity booklet throughout for an extra outdoor adventure.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates said: “This is the first school holiday of the year, so we wanted to make sure our young visitors have something really exciting to experience during their visit.

“We feel The Plotters’ Forest is the perfect place to reap the benefits of outdoor play – ‘close to nature’ certainly takes on a whole new meaning.”

The castle will be opening early from its annual deep clean on select dates, so visitors can step inside the medieval fortress for a special family-friendly experience.

Taking place on Sunday 23rd to Tuesday 25th February between 10am and 1pm, families can go back in time to 1900 and experience life as part of a Victorian workforce at Raby Castle. From the scullery maid washing pots to the housemaid hauling coals for the fires, visitors will discover the daily duties and hidden stories of castle life.

Guided tours of Raby Castle will also be available at 11.30pm on 23rd, 24th and 25th February.

Raby Castle, Park and Garden’s beautiful retail space in the Coach House will be open throughout for those looking to spend some time perusing the shop’s carefully curated selection of homeware and gifts.

Whereas High Force Waterfall, which is a 30-minute drive from Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and is part of the main Raby Estate, is hosting a new woodland animals themed trail for the February half term, which can be enjoyed alongside its woodland walks, stunning setting and its adventure trail full of intricately carved and thoughtfully designed animal sculptures.

Tickets to The Plotters’ Forest, Deer Park and Gardens are £12 for adults, £9 for children (ages 4-15) or £44 for a family ticket (two adults and three children).

Tickets to the Victorian Workforce experience are £12.50 for adults and £10.50 for children.

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/events/high-force-waterfall/

For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle

Five Wonders to spot in The Deer Park

A stroll through the Deer Park at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is an exciting experience for all ages, with a variety of beautifully captivating sights to see, including diverse wildlife, historic structures and much more, all signalled with further information on the Raby App, along with suggested walking routes.

Prior to a stroll in the Deer Park, little one’s can collect their complimentary trail booklets from The Round House, a great way to keep children engaged and inquisitive as they journey through the Walled Gardens and Deer Park.

 

Red and Fallow Deer

The picturesque Deer Park is home to majestic Red Deer – The UK’s Largest land mammal – and the more delicate Fallow Deer. Both herds are descendants of the original animals from Norman times and can be seen in close proximity at this time of year as the Park Rangers are supplementary feeding these incredible animals through the colder months.

 

the 5 wonders to spot in raby castle park and gardens deer park

Jake Eastham

 

Snowdrops

Dainty Snowdrops are beginning to appear in the Walled Garden and Deer Park. As one of the earliest flowers to bloom they are a welcome reminder that spring is just around the corner.

 

Snowdrops at raby castle park and gardens

 

Birds of Prey

Look out for our resident Barn Owls, Kestrals, Sparrowhawks, Buzzards and many more spectacular birds of prey who can often be spotted soaring above the vast parkland.

 

birds of prey the deer park raby castle

Peter Gunton

 

The Temple

This gothic structure was built in the late 18th Century for the First Earl of Darlington. Throughout the years this building has been known as the Summerhouse, the Folly and the Belverde. Today, this beautiful building is the perfect nook that offers breath-taking views of the parkland and is one of our favourite spots to sit and watch the world go by.

 

the folly raby castle park and gardens

Rachel Riley

 

Bath House

The Bath House is a stunning building which can be viewed from the path on the West side of the park. Trips from the castle to the Bath House were a popular historic pastime – though the spring water was so cold very few actually took a dip.

 

bath house raby castle

David Foster

 

Discover a world of history, culture and enchantment at your fingertips with the Raby Estates App. Discover walking routes at Raby Castle, Park & Gardens and High Force Waterfall via an interactive map, explore points of interest including wildlife and historical developments.

Creative gardener and artist Becky Crowley has been appointed as assistant head gardener in the remodelled 18th century Walled Gardens here at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

The revitalised 300-year-old Walled Gardens, which feature three different gardens encased within the historic brick walls, reopened in summer last year following a collaboration between Lady Barnard, creative director and custodian of Raby Castle, and world-renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei.

Introduced by Luciano, and with a specialism in cut flower gardens, Becky will work alongside our gardens and landscape manager Dickon Harding and his team to ensure the vision for the five-acre space is fulfilled.

Becky said: “Every garden naturally takes on a life and soul of its own and our priority is to make sure we understand Lady Barnard and Luciano’s overall vision. We will be working closely with Luciano to nurture his design and help develop this as the gardens and plants mature.

“It was a great experience to work with Luciano and his team on the development of the cutting garden at such an early stage, and now I am really looking forward to seeing it all flourish in its first full year. There’s also a gentle understatement within the overall space and the planting.

“The opportunity to work with such a friendly and welcoming team in a place steeped in history doesn’t come along very often at all – it really is the whole package – and I feel very fortunate to be working here.”

Luciano and Lady Barnard have retained the gardens’ distinctive spirit; one in which the character of Raby and its rich history is deeply embedded. The East Garden is home to a flower garden of grasses and perennials above the tiered grass amphitheatre; the Formal Garden is where our guests can see the historic Raby Yew hedge; and the productive West Garden is dedicated to growing an abundance of flowers for cutting.

Dickon added: “The Walled Gardens have always been a special place but the remodelling by Luciano and Lady Barnard has produced something even more wonderful. It’s been incredible to be part of the journey so far, from overseeing the construction phase to now looking after and nurturing the gardens and I am really looking forward to seeing how the plants and spaces develop and welcoming visitors to this beautiful ever-changing space throughout the seasons.”

Lady Barnard led the Walled Gardens project, which was part of the major two-year restoration development here at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens to create a new lifestyle destination in the north east, and believes the gardens can be a cultural and calming retreat for visitors.

Lady Barnard said: “The gardens have been inspired by Raby’s heritage however now incorporate contemporary planting, Amelanchier woodlands and a series of unique mazes, as well as a tiered grass amphitheater where people can relax as they look out to the castle and enjoy musical and theatrical events.

“It was a joy to work with Luciano on this project – his talent shines through and I think green fingered visitors, and those not so adept in the garden, will appreciate his planting schemes which are just inspired!”

Award-winning garden designer Luciano Giubbilei, who was selected as garden designer of the year in the House & Garden Design Awards 2024, is one of Britain’s most successful garden designers and the newly redesigned Walled Gardens at Raby Castle are his first public project.

Visitors in 2025 can also time their visit with a trip to the medieval castle itself between March and October and the Estate’s ancient Deer Park, home to two species of deer which have lived on throughout picturesque parklands and surrounding lakes.

Lady Barnard added: “I believe we have maintained the soul of the Walled Gardens and I for one can’t wait to welcome guests come throughout the different seasons, as they witness the ever-changing nature of this wondrous place.”

 

The walled gardens at raby castle park and gardens

 

The Charity Opening raised over £2,000 for the fantastic local resource, Great North Air Ambulance Service

 

Visitors to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens New Year’s Day charity walk have helped to raise funds to support the work of a local charity.

Following the popular charity walk through Raby’s picturesque Deer Park earlier this year, over £2,200 has been donated to the Great North Air Ambulance Service which provides lifesaving and critical care services across the North of England.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates said: “This is wonderful news to start the new year, and we hope this is one of many promising updates for the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

“The work they do is vital and I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone who came to our charity walk and donated.”

Throughout the rest of the year, the heritage destination will be raising funds for and awareness of the Great North Air Ambulance Service, which covers over 8,000 square miles across the North East, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and the Isle of Man and is ready to help anyone seven days a week.

Ben Sisson, specialist fundraiser at the Great North Air Ambulance Service said: “I am delighted that Raby Estates has chosen the Great North Air Ambulance Service as their charity of the year for 2025.

This opportunity to work together and partner with such an iconic and much-loved Estate in the heart of our region will raise both vital and positive awareness about our charity and its service. It will also ultimately raise much needed essential funds to keep us being able to deliver our world class advanced pre-hospital medical care to the people of our region when they need it at their worst moments.”

“New Year’s Day has really helped to kick start this partnership and work together in a fantastic way and helped us really engage with the public in a personal and positive manner.”

The Perfect Wedding Venue Awaits at High Force Waterfall

When it comes to your wedding day, the setting should be just as extraordinary as the love you’re celebrating. Imagine exchanging vows in front of a cascading waterfall, surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty. High Force Waterfall, nestled in the heart of the North Pennines, offers an exclusive venue where nature, elegance, and unforgettable memories come together.

This unique venue provides the ideal backdrop for both intimate and grand celebrations. Whether you dream of an outdoor ceremony by the falls or a sophisticated gathering in the elegantly designed Garden Room, High Force brings your vision to life. Every detail is carefully crafted to ensure a seamless and refined experience for you and your guests. From thoughtfully designed rooms to exceptional food and service, this venue offers the perfect balance of comfort and style.

With exclusive use of the venue, you and your guests can enjoy complete privacy, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. It’s a place where you can focus on what truly matters — the love you’re sharing and the memories you’ll make together.

5 Reasons to Choose High Force Hotel & Waterfall for Your Wedding

1. A Unique, Stunning Setting
High Force Waterfall offers a breath-taking natural backdrop, where the beauty of the waterfall enhances the romance of your wedding day. Set in the North Pennines, this location promises a scenic and unforgettable setting.

2. A Venue for Every Season
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant blooms of spring or the cosy charm of a winter celebration, High Force is perfect year-round. Each season offers a different, yet equally stunning atmosphere for your wedding.

3. Tailored to Your Vision
From a riverside ceremony to an intimate indoor celebration, High Force is adaptable to suit your personal style and vision for the day. The venue’s flexibility ensures that your wedding is truly your own.

4. Exclusive Use
With exclusive venue hire, you and your guests can enjoy complete privacy and tranquillity. This ensures that your day is as intimate and special as it deserves to be.

5. Luxurious Accommodation
End your day in one of High Force’s beautifully designed en-suite rooms, where the rustic charm of the country meets modern comfort. A peaceful, luxurious space to unwind and reflect on your perfect day.

Plan Your Dream Wedding at High Force

At High Force, we don’t just host weddings — we create experiences that last a lifetime. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and enhanced by elegant facilities, your wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of.

Now booking for 2025 and 2026, High Force offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding. Contact us today to start planning the day you’ve always imagined, and let us help you create memories that will last forever.

https://www.raby.co.uk/high-force/hotel/weddings/

Three years ago, Raby acquired the old NatWest Bank building at 28 The Market Place, Barnard Castle, to create a link between the Market Place and the Castle at Barnard Castle, which lies to the rear of the premises. The project aims to bring into use the Outer Ward of the Castle, to enhance the Castle’s profile and contribution to the economic life of the town. 28 Market Place offers a potential gateway and resource. The Castle at Barnard Castle was built soon after 1093 on a dramatic site above the River Tees. The Castle was built to control a river crossing between the Bishop of Durham’s territory and the Honour of Richmond. Much of the present Castle was built during the 12th and early 13th centuries by the Balliol family. From the 14th century onwards, the Castle belonged to the Earls of Warwick, and from 1471 to 1485 to the Duke of Gloucester, later Richard III. After a fierce siege during the Rising of the North in 1569, when the Castle was bombarded by rebels, the Castle went into steep decline and was effectively abandoned by the early 17th century. It has remained an imposing ruin ever since.

Ownership of the site is complex but much of the Inner and Outer Wards are owned by Raby with the Inner Ward being occupied by English Heritage Trust under a series of Guardianship Agreements. Working with partners such as Cultura Trust, Durham County Council, English Heritage Trust, Historic England and Barnard Castle Town Council, we now hope to raise the profile and footfall of the Castle as a tourism asset for visitors and amenity for residents. This should in turn improve the economic, cultural and social connectivity between the Castle and the town.

The project is intended to introduce public access to the Outer Ward of the Castle, an area of about two acres in the heart of the town, which currently has no use and therefore delivers no tangible benefits. We are currently considering and consulting on alternative uses for this area to test and conclude on those most viable, sustainable, and beneficial, recognising it is part of the Castle’s scheduled monument. By bringing the Outer Ward into public use we also hope to fill a gap in the historical and archaeological understanding of the Castle in the context of life in the town, and ultimately attract funding for the repair of the curtain walls overlooking the river. This is with the aim of removing the Castle from the Historic England Heritage at Risk register. We hope to make public engagement an integral part of all activities through consultation and volunteering opportunities, which will help to inform the business case and build capacity for future sustainability.

We also believe we should explore options for creating direct access into the Castle and/or a resource for activity in the Outer Ward as well as increasing the cultural, community, economic and tourism value of the Castle for the town. To this end, we are planning to devise and test the viability of a residential ‘guildhouse’ for traditional skills training and heritage learning in the disciplines required to support the Castle, historic town and associated sites, including showcasing skills demonstrations and providing career and employment support, especially for marginalised and disadvantaged groups. The project is in its early stages, but we look forward to keeping you updated on progress.

Raby Estates supports an annual charity event to raise money for the Institute of Cancer Research by participating in a “Human Mountain Endeavour” on the Lakeland fells. Last year a team of 12 walkers from Raby successfully completed a trek in the fells around Helvellyn and raised around £7000.

One third of us will be touched by cancer in our lifetime. The Institute of Cancer Research https://www.icr.ac.uk/ is a charitable academic working body with over 300 scientists and has taken more drugs into clinical trials in the last decade than any other organisation worldwide.  We are therefore proud to be supporting such a worthy cause once again this year.

This annual event involves teams from businesses located across the north of England ascending Lakeland’s highest mountains in early winter conditions.

The event has raised more than £1.8 million for the Institute and other charities over the past 36 years. This year’s event takes place on Friday 15th November and with your help we would like to make this another record-breaking year. Each team will be allocated a mountain route for the day and Raby has been allocated the Buttermere fells to the west of Keswick.

If you would like to help them raise much needed funds for The Institute of Cancer Research, please see our Just Giving link

https://www.justgiving.com/page/rabyestates2024

19.11.24

Many thanks indeed to all our supporters for your generous support for this year’s ICR Climb of Life Appeal. 17 climbers and assorted dogs made up the Raby team having been assigned the fells around Buttermere as our challenge this year.

Unfortunately, weather conditions weren’t quite as favourable as last year, and Friday 15th November dawned to low cloud and persistent drizzle.  This did not dampen our spirits and after gathering in Buttermere village, the team moved off to ascend Red Pike, Buttermere and then onto High Stile and High Crag before our descent back to Buttermere Lake and the village. There were some glimpses of sunshine towards the end of the day but mostly the weather continued as it had started, and we were all rather bedraggled by the time we returned to the cars in the late afternoon.

This year’s event raised just over £91,000 overall for ICR and I am pleased to confirm that we made one of the largest single team contributions of just over £5,000.

This year’s grand total means that this annual event has now raised over £1.80 million during the 35 years that it has been taking place with over £1.1 million raised for the Institute of Cancer Research during that period.  This, of course would not have been possible without your generous support.  All of us at Raby are therefore enormously grateful to you. Many thanks once again for your support and your donation.

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.