Raby Castle is turning back the clock to the measly Middle Ages with a Horrible Histories takeover this autumn.

Inspired by the bestselling books written by Terry Deary and illustrated by Martin Brown, and publishing by Scholastic, Raby is shining a light on the gruesome history of the medieval fortress with a new installation available from Saturday 4^th October to Sunday 9^th November.

As visitors journey through the 14^th century castle, each room will contain new information about the castle in medieval times, including some surprising historical facts from Raby’s past, as told Horrible Histories style!

Julie Biddlecome-Brown, curator at Raby Castle, said: “It’s been fascinating delving into Raby’s legacy from the Middle Ages, looking back at a time when Raby was a castle, rather than the family home and historic house it became centuries later.

“Our special Horrible Histories tour will allow visitors to see Raby Castle in a way they’ve never seen it before, drawing inspiration from the much-loved books that continue to inspire new generations of history fans.”

Throughout October half term, Raby’s expert team of guides will be on hand once a day to take families round the castle and point out the grim and grisly parts of the medieval fortress.

Julie adds: “Our gregarious guides will be drawing attention to parts of the castle that you might normally walk by, but at the time would have had a very different – and sometimes staggering – function.”

The servant’s hall will be transformed into a hands-on space packed with activities exploring medieval life including period costume items to try on and photo opportunities, as well as the chance to test out stocks and discover some surprising medieval crimes and punishments.

A Horrible Histories trail sheet can also be collected, which families can complete during their time-travelling trip round Raby Castle, as they are guided through a cast of memorable characters including powerful nobles and pitiful peasants.

Families can make the most of their day out with Raby’s Family Explorer ticket, providing access to the Horrible Histories inside Raby Castle, Deer Park, Gardens and The Plotters’ Forest. Book online in advance to enjoy discounted rates as the Family Explorer Ticket (two adults and two children) is £60 online or £65 when purchased on-site.

Additional adult and child tickets to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens can also be purchased separately.

To find out more about Raby Castle and its Horrible Histories takeover, and to book tickets, visit: www.raby.co.uk/events/horrible-histories-takeover-at-raby-castle/

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and British home and lifestyle brand, Neptune, are continuing to collaborate into the autumn.

Following the successful outdoor living and gardens collection in Raby’s conservatory throughout the summer, a new accessories collection from Neptune is now available in The Coach House Shop.

Stephanie Goss, who is retail, buying and merchandising manager at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens said: “The seasonal summer collaboration was a great success and a wonderful way to showcase such a well-known brand. Neptune’s products are of high quality and sophistication, aligning closely with Raby’s overall retail vision.

“Neptune has a loyal customer base and many have visited us over the summer months, so we’re incredibly pleased to be introducing a new handpicked accessories selection – perfect for the cosy autumnal months when many of us spend more time indoors at home.”

Neptune is known for its timeless style, thoughtful design and enduring craftmanship, and the latest selection, designed for the home, features kitchenware, baskets, vases, lamps, dinnerware sets and cushions.

“We’re thrilled to continue our collaboration with Raby Castle, Park and Gardens into the autumn,” said Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune. “Our new autumn collection has been thoughtfully curated to bring warmth, style, and enduring quality into the home during the cosier months ahead. Partnering with such a prestigious, independent stockist allows us to reach customers who truly appreciate craftsmanship and timeless design, and we’re delighted to see our pieces becoming part of their homes.”

The Coach House is open daily between 10am and 4.30pm and will be hosting a Christmas shopping launch evening on Thursday 9^th October, followed by an additional Christmas shopping evening on Thursday 13^th November, where the retail space will remain open until 7pm and visitors can browse the selection of seasonal decorations, gifts, and treats.

Raby’s popular Christmas market will also be returning on Friday 28^th November for three days of seasonal celebrations, with over 50 festive stalls of artisan crafts, gifts, and produce for visitors to peruse.

For further information about Raby’s retail space can be found on the following link: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/shop/

Further details for the Christmas shopping events can be found via: www.raby.co.uk/events/christmas-shopping-evening/

Raby Estate has created a festive package for corporate groups at both of its iconic County Durham locations, including the new Raby Castle at Christmas event and a stargazing supper experience.

Located within Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, teams can visit the ground floor of the 14^th century castle which will be open to the public in the build up to Christmas for the first time in fifty years.

The new seasonal offering, designed by custodian and creative director, Lady Barnard, will allow visitors to step back in time to experience a traditional family Christmas at Raby Castle as it takes them through eight beautifully decorated rooms.

The event, which is full of photo opportunities, tells the story of Christmas Day, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking to an evening of elegant dining and Christmas games, featuring an impressive table setting ready for a spectacular festive meal.

The corporate package also includes a festive afternoon tea featuring three tiers of seasonal delights. The post-tour treat will be hosted within the spacious The Vinery Cafe which boasts panoramic views of Raby Castle and will be beautifully decorated for Christmas with festive greenery and twinkling lights.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates said: “We understand that not all corporate groups are after the traditional Christmas meal and party and are on the lookout for something a little more unique and inclusive.

“With festive and breathtaking decorations, an array of photo opportunities and a heartwarming story that can be enjoyed at your own pace, our personal retelling of how Raby’s ancestors would have celebrated Christmas is a wonderful experience to enjoy with colleagues and the perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit.”

For a memorable after-dark event under the night sky, High Force Hotel and Waterfall’s popular Stargazing Suppers will also be on offer for corporate groups, combining seasonal indulgence with natural beauty.

The evening begins with a three-course meal at the hotel, featuring locally-inspired dishes with a festive twist. A guided star-lit walk to High Force Waterfall follows, offering a unique chance to witness one of the north’s highest waterfalls which will be dramatically illuminated during the event.

With the guidance of an expert astronomer who is on hand to help identify constellations, planets and the Milky Way galaxy, guests can look skywards and see some of the UK’s darkest skies.

Groups are welcome to retreat to High Force Hotel for a post-stargazing hot chocolate or mulled wine in front of a roaring fire. For those wanting to hunker down in the North Pennines National Landscape, rooms are also available to book for an overnight stay.

Sophie added: “High Force is one of the UK’s most magnificent waterfalls and is an incredible spectacle in every season, but there’s something special about wrapping up warm and witnessing its majestic force in the winter months. Coupled with a festive meal beforehand, this offering is a fantastic alternative to the usual Christmas activities.”

The Raby Castle at Christmas experience followed by a festive afternoon tea will be available from Saturday 22^nd November and is £45 per person, based on bookings of five or more people.

The Festive Stargazing Supper at High Force Hotel and Waterfall is available on 12^th, 13^th, 19^th and 20^th December and is £80 per person for bookings of five or more people. An overnight stay at High Force Hotel will be an additional cost.

To find out more about Raby Estate’s corporate Christmas packages and to book, visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/corporate-and-business-events/ or email admin@raby.co.uk

One of the most magnificent waterfalls in the UK has created a discounted family ticket for the autumn months.

The High Force Waterfall family saver ticket is £10 when booked online and admits two adults and two children to the natural phenomenon, with its awe-inspiring 21 metre cascade roaring into the rocks below. Originally introduced in the summer, the reduced ticket rate is continuing for the remainder of the year following its popularity.

Andrew Lindsay, general manager at High Force Hotel said: “The waterfall is stunning during every season, but the striking autumnal colours throughout the beautiful landscape are really something to behold.

“We hope the discounted ticket allows even more visitors to come and experience High Force Waterfall and enjoy spending time together in the great outdoors within the Upper Teesdale countryside. The waterfall and surrounding area are perfect for families, with a maintained gravel path to the base of the falls, ideal pushchairs and little ones, or for the older adventurers there’s the circular woodland route with forest sculptures along the way. The family saver ticket was well received in the summer – so we’re pleased we’re able to continue this offer.”

During their visit, families can enjoy the circular woodland walking route, which leads visitors to the base of High Force Waterfall, as well as complimentary seasonal trails.

From Saturday 4^th October to Sunday 9^th November, there will be an autumnal adventure trail through the golden woodland to experience, where little explorers will need to collect hidden letters to solve a seasonal riddle. This activity is included in the admission price and will be replaced by a festive trail in the lead up to Christmas.

An accompanying app is also available to download, where users can discover local walking routes via an interactive map and create their own bespoke tour of the waterfall walk by filtering different points of interest including wildlife, geology and landscape.

High Force Waterfall is open daily from 10am to 3pm and a tour of the idyllic nature spot is available every Sunday at 11am with one of the waterfall’s welcome hosts.

Across the road is High Force Hotel, where visitors can put their feet up and relax after their time in nature and warm up in front of a roaring fire with a hot drink or a tasty lunch.

For those looking to extend their stay at High Force, the hotel is also offering an autumn offer with three nights available for the price of two, which is available on bed and breakfast stays or a dinner, bed and breakfast package until 20^th December.

For more information about High Force Waterfall and High Force Hotel and to book tickets, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/high-force/

Durham University and Raby Castle have formalised their already productive collaboration, connecting world-class research with one of the North East’s most iconic heritage sites.

The institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which builds on almost a decade of close work between the Raby Estate and the University.

It reflects a shared ambition to combine cutting-edge research with real-world impact in heritage, environment, energy, and community engagement.

The collaboration has been shaped by longstanding academic and curatorial relationships.

Durham students already undertake work placements at Raby, giving them invaluable experience to boost their employability, while Raby benefits from their expertise.

The students often work on initiatives that engage with the community, reflecting a shared commitment to making research more accessible and inclusive.

Durham researchers work with Raby staff on projects that draw from the rich archive material and the topography of the historic estate.

The partnership is underpinned by two of Durham University’s flagship Strategic Research Fund programmes: Smart Soils and Heritage 360.

Through Smart Soils, Raby is a key partner in advancing practical approaches to achieving Net Zero within the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, Heritage 360 positions the estate as a ‘living laboratory’ for natural and cultural heritage research.

This includes ecological modelling and archaeological investigation to the conservation of buildings, landscapes, and collections at the Raby Estate.

The partnership also has strong links to the University’s Durham Energy Institute, with exciting potential for exploring geothermal heat sourcing from the estate’s former lead mines.

A centrepiece of the relationship is the extensive, internationally significant Raby archive.

It offers exceptional material on the late 17th and 18th centuries, including recipe collections, estate records, and a remarkable set of medieval seals from the Vane estates in Shropshire.

Engagement and outreach are central to the Raby-Durham partnership.

This includes collaborative exhibitions at Durham University’s Oriental Museum and co-created events such as the popular Raby Redcurrant programme.

The Raby Redcurrant initiative exemplifies the partnership’s blend of science, history, and community.

It involved Durham researchers and Raby staff tracing the origins of the famous redcurrant to Raby Castle, working with local gardeners, historical food specialists and scientists.

Manuscript recipes from Raby’s archive were transcribed and analysed by Durham postgraduate students, then brought to life through projects such as the Eat Medieval series and the Raby Redcurrant Day School.

Lord Barnard, Custodian of Raby Castle, said: “I am delighted to have agreed this MoU with our Friends at Durham University.

“Our strong ties provide opportunities for academics and students to explore how our landscapes, buildings, collections and heritage can engage and benefit current and future generations.”

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, said: “This Memorandum of Understanding cements a deep and valued relationship between Durham University and Raby Castle.

“It reflects our shared commitment to learning, sustainability, and community engagement.

“Together, we will continue to advance innovative research and share our discoveries to ensure that our heritage continues to inspire and inform generations to come.”

Professor Giles Gasper, Deputy Executive Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Durham University, added: “Our collaboration with Raby Castle and Estate is of longstanding and rich with future possibilities.

“The privilege of being able to work across archives, collections, and estates, and with Raby colleagues, brings rare and special opportunities to develop research projects together.

“The interdisciplinary and inter-sector possibilities are exciting, and we’re looking forward to working in partnership to raise the profile of our collaborations.”

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has created a special ticket offer for the August bank holiday weekend.

A £15 adult day ticket will be available from Saturday 23rd August to Monday 25th August, granting access to one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England, the 200-acre Deer Park and the stunning 18th century Walled Gardens – saving visitors nearly a third of the usual ticket price.

The ticket will also include entry to Raby’s popular Harvest Seasonal Market which will be taking place in the Riding School and Dutch Barn across the weekend, where visitors can expect live music, local produce, delectable food, and unique gifts for all the family.

From hand crafted jewellery and unique homewares to mouth-watering local produce, there will be stalls with delicious treats, seasonal produce and beautiful homemade products, as well as food stalls from handpicked and high-quality local suppliers.

Raby’s Estate Chef will be rustling up a storm with a barbecue and The Vinery Café will also be open 10am – 4pm across the Saturday, Sunday and Monday, serving handcrafted dishes and treats inspired or sourced from the beautiful Raby Estate. Discover Raby’s retail space in The Coach House, where visitors can peruse and purchase a curated selection of homeware and gifts, with a summer sale on the plants at the outdoor stalls next to The Garage Cafe.

Claire Jones, Head of Leisure and Tourism at Raby Estates said: “With the summer holidays nearing an end, this cost-effective ticket offer allows families and visitors to make the most of their long weekend together and celebrate the last of summer with a full day out at Raby Castle, without having to pay full price. We are encouraging visitors to book online as soon as possible as we expect this weekend to sell out quickly, due to this incredible offer.

“Our Harvest Seasonal Market is always a popular event and we’re looking forward to welcoming many returning stallholders, as well as new ones, to showcase some of the best suppliers in the region.”

Other ticket offers available across the bank holiday weekend include a £10 adult Park and Gardens ticket, instead of the usual £15, and a £10 Park and Play ticket for both adults and children, which includes access to Raby’s popular woodland adventure playground, The Plotters’ Forest.

A selection of complimentary trails will also be available to enjoy at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens across the bank holiday weekend, including a ‘Curious Creatures’ trail in the castle and a ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ activity throughout The Plotters’ Forest.

For those looking to visit Raby once more before the end of the month, a reduced Family Explorer ticket has also been introduced, providing access to everything the lifestyle destination has to offer.

For £60 when purchasing online or £65 onsite, this ticket includes entry for a family of four to Raby Castle, two hours of fun in The Plotters’ Forest woodland adventure playground,

complimentary guided tours to engage all interests, and access to the beautiful five-acre Walled Gardens and the ancient deer park where red and fallow deer can be spotted roaming freely.

Separate tickets can also be purchased to gain entry to the Harvest Seasonal Market. These tickets are £2 when purchased online or £5 onsite, and children up to 15 years are free.

Over at High Force Waterfall, which is part of the Raby Estate, a summer saver ticket has also launched so families can visit for the rest of the school holidays at a reduced rate.

When booking in advance, the summer saver ticket is £10 for two adults and two children and families can enjoy a complimentary Bumble Bee Safari trail during their time at High Force as well, which is currently open until 8pm.

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

For more information about High Force Waterfall and to book tickets in advance, head to: www.raby.co.uk/high-force/

Raby Castle’s recent landscape design scheme and remodelled 18th century Walled Gardens have achieved second place in the prestigious 2025 European Garden Awards.

The achievement for the County Durham destination was in the Management or Development of a Historic Park or Garden category, with the first prize going to the Promenades de Reims in Reims, France. A fellow UK nominee, the South Cliff Gardens, was also awarded second place alongside Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

Since 2010, around 140 winners from 23 countries have received an award from the European Garden Award. Most of these have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to the maintenance and development of historic gardens, contemporary garden design, and exemplary climate adaptation initiatives.

The award acknowledged both the remodelling of the Walled Gardens, led by award-winning garden designer Luciano Giubbilei in creative collaboration with Lady Barnard, and the redesign of Raby Castle’s extensive public areas throughout the grounds, which was managed by acclaimed landscape architect Alistair Baldwin. Both projects were completed in 2024 as part of the landmark three-year regeneration development at Raby Castle.

Lady Barnard, creative director and custodian of Raby Castle and Estates who was heavily involved in the redesign of the Walled Gardens, said: “We’re immensely proud to have achieved international recognition for the beautiful gardens and spaces throughout Raby Castle’s grounds and I’d like to extend my thanks and congratulations to both Luciano and Alistair. The spaces they have created are elegant, tranquil and perfectly encapsulate the fascinating heritage of Raby.”

Raby Castle’s Walled Gardens have also been nominated for the Historic Houses 2025 Garden of the Year Award. Sponsored by Christie’s, The Garden of the Year Award recognises the importance of some of the country’s most spectacular gardens with outstanding horticultural and public appeal.

Dickon Harding, gardens and landscape manager at Raby Castle said: “The gardens team have worked exceptionally hard to maintain the impressive vision of both Luciano and Lady Barnard, ensuring the five-acre space continues to flourish as they had hoped and envisaged.

“It’s been wonderful to see how the three different areas within the Walled Gardens have matured over the different seasons, and we feel an immense sense of pride that we get to work in such a peaceful and beautiful place, steeped in history. Winning the Garden of the Year Award would be a brilliant achievement and thank you to everyone who has already voted for Raby in this category.”

Raby is one of eight shortlisted gardens, chosen from among the hundreds of gardens, parks, and grounds that offer free entry to members of Historic Houses, the association that represents and supports the UK’s independent historic homes, castles, and gardens, and voting is open now.

To vote for Raby Castle, Park and Gardens in Historic Houses’ 2025 Garden of the Year Award, please visit: www.historichouses.org/vote-goya/

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

Raby Estate’s High Force Waterfall route is extending its opening times for the first time in its history, giving visitors more opportunities to discover the full force of nature at sunset.

The circular woodland walking route, which leads visitors to the base of the natural phenomenon, will now be open until 8pm each evening during the summer months, instead of the previous 4pm, allowing more time for visitors to soak up the scenic landscape and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England.

Ian Scanlan, a welcome host at High Force Waterfall, said: “The awe-inspiring cascade of High Force Waterfall itself is truly magical, but the stunning upland landscape surrounding the waterfall is also a wonderful part of the county.

“With the extended opening hours, this will provide further opportunities for people to explore this beautiful nature spot and witness the drama of this area at dusk, whether they’re visiting after work or families are spending more time here with the school holiday bedtime routines being more relaxed.”

The waterfall has also launched a summer saver ticket so families can visit for the rest of the school holidays at a reduced rate. When booking in advance, the summer saver ticket is £10 for two adults and two children and families can enjoy a complimentary Bumble Bee Safari trail during their time at High Force as well. This new, nature-inspired activity is included for free with waterfall admission and encourages curiosity, movement, and connection with nature.

Situated within the beautiful Upper Teesdale countryside in the North Pennines Natural Landscapes, High Force Waterfall is an iconic County Durham destination and a tour of the idyllic nature spot is available every Sunday at 11am with one of the waterfalls welcome hosts.

The new opening times are for a limited time only and will end on Sunday 7th September, with tickets available to purchase online in advance or in person on the day.

High Force Waterfall is also one of the North Pennines Outdoor Mobility Tramper hire site locations, with the route starting from the hotel and winds gently down through beautiful woodland above the river.

To make an evening of it, nature lovers can retreat to the High Force Hotel across the road from the waterfall and enjoy a cosy drink in the bar or a pub dinner before heading home. Guests can also treat themselves to an overnight stay in the boutique hotel which is surrounded by verdant views.

Happy campers can make use of the extended opening hours during the summer, exploring the natural site before returning to their motorhomes which can be parked at High Force Hotel. Parking costs £12 per vehicle a night and must be pre-booked in advance which can be redeemed when you dine at the hotel restaurant.

The summer saver family ticket to High Force Waterfall is £10 for two adults and two children when booking online in advance, or £12 onsite. Alternatively, an adult ticket is £3.95 and a child ticket (ages 4-12) is £2.45 online. Under fours go free.

For more information about High Force Waterfall and High Force Hotel and to book tickets, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/high-force/

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has launched tickets for its sellout Father Christmas at Raby Castle event on Friday 1^st August, where families meet the main man himself in the most magical castle in the North of England.

For an exciting festive twist this year, Father Christmas has been caught in a gust of wind and has come tumbling down the wrong chimney for Raby’s Christmas celebrations.

Instead of gathering in the Castle’s Entrance Hall, children will get to climb the grand staircase into one of Raby Castle’s most magnificent rooms, the Baron’s Hall which will be glowing with festive magic, for their special encounter with Father Christmas, featuring a performance full of singing, storytelling and laughter alongside a personalised gift.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates said: “Father Christmas is all topsy-turvy this year. He thinks that the sun always shines at Christmas, that Christmas puddings are made from baked beans, and that his sleigh is pulled by sausage dogs. Something must be done, or this Christmas might stay topsy turvy!

“This new, fun encounter with Father Christmas will take place in the grandeur of the Baron’s Hall, allowing our visitors to climb the beautiful staircase for the very first time, into this most magical space to meet Father Christmas and help us put Christmas the right way up.

“Last year, our family Christmas event sold out within a few days, so we’ve expanded the experience for 2025 to include extra slots, allowing even more visitors to enjoy the festive cheer at Raby.”

There will also still be accessible Father Christmas sessions in the ground floor hall at Raby Castle on selected dates to make the experience inclusive for all family members.

The Father Christmas at Raby Castle event will take place from 22^nd November with final performances on Christmas Eve. Tickets are priced from £30 for one child and one adult, and premium tickets also include access to the beautiful Walled Gardens and the expansive Deer Park for a festive stroll in the crisp winter air, as well as entry to tour Raby Castle, decorated for Christmas.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens will be revealing more information and dates about its popular enchanted festive forest, festive afternoon teas, creative wreath workshops and its Christmas market for an extraordinary calendar of festive offerings.

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