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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).

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 1^st 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 14^th 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.

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

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 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.”