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.”

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/

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 15^th 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 15^th 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.

TICKETS ON SALE TO JOIN A RABY RUMPUS THROUGH THE CASTLE GROUNDS THIS AUTUMN

A right rumpus is about to hit the North East this autumn as Raby Castle, Park and Gardens launches tickets to a never seen before spectacle of live music, dance and captivating puppetry, which all comes alive after dark.

Taking over the grounds of Raby Castle to provide an immersive and unforgettable new experience this autumn, tickets to The Glittering North are now available for selected dates throughout October and into early November.

Celebrating the region’s Norse and Viking heritage in a raucous adventure like no other, the event brings to life iconic figures from the past with enchanting puppetry and illuminating light art.

From Gullinburstin, a boar with bristles made from gold that light up the sky, to Sleipnir, a giant illuminated horse with eight legs – visitors of all ages can mingle with these fascinating figures before settling down for tales of folklore and myth.

The remodelled 18^th century Walled Garden will be home to the ‘trail of the north’ full of illuminated photo opportunities, a glittering immersive space dripping with gold, giant illuminated fish in a new watery world and a spectacular recreation of the northern lights.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estate said: “The change from summer to autumn marks the start of cosy nights with hands warming round a mug of hot chocolate, fiery clusters of red and orange as the trees change colour and crunchy leaves beneath your feet.

“Our captivating new event provides a festoon lit and atmospheric autumnal celebration, full of feasting, warm blankets, torchlight and fire processions, designed to set imaginations alight in a spectacle never seen before in County Durham.”

Alongside the ‘trail of the north’, the Dutch Barn will be adorned with lights, flags, bunting and barrels. Whooping and whirling folk musicians play fiddles and brass whilst captivating fire performers dazzle the crowds.

The Riding School will also become a transformed space in this mythical new world, surrounded by warm lighting where visitors can hunker down and listen to tales of Norse gods and shapeshifting beasts.

Extend your autumnal evening and embrace the sunset views of Raby Castle from the new Vinery café restaurant. The glasshouse will be open throughout the evening to provide delicious food and warm drinks. The beautiful autumn and Christmas range will be available to browse in the new retail space in the Coach House featuring a range of high quality, artisan items.

Tickets to step into The Glittering North at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens can now be booked for the following dates: 12^th, 13^th, 19^th, 20^th, 26^th, 27^th, 30^th, 31^st October and the 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd November with tickets available from 4pm – 8pm.

Tickets cost £20 for adults and £13 for children.

For further information and to book tickets, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/events/the-glittering-north/

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and High Force Hotel have both been recognised in Tripadivsor’s® Travelers’ Choice® Awards for 2024.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens in Staindrop and High Force Hotel in Forest-in-Teesdale, which are both part of the Raby Estate, have scooped up the award which honours businesses that consistently earn great reviews, placing them among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor.

High Force Hotel is a rural retreat with ten individually designed en-suite rooms and its own restaurant which serves locally-sourced food all day – including many produce from the Raby Estate.

Located in the scenic Upper Teesdale adjacent to High Force Waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, just across the road, the hotel provides an escape to the country for its guests, including four-legged friends.

Andrew Lindsey, the general manager at High Force Hotel said: “This award means such a lot as it is based on the feedback our visitors provide following their stay so a huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share this. Not only does their insight help to demonstrate what future visitors can expect, but we can also closely monitor this to ensure our guests continue to have the best experience possible.

“I’d also like to thank our amazing team who work incredibly hard to make sure everyone has a wonderful time during their stay with us. Nothing is too much trouble for the team and I feel immensely proud of their dedication to look after our guests so brilliantly.”

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has recently opened its new lifestyle destination, offering visitors an all-day experience with acres of unexpected elegance, complete with heritage buildings, remodelled gardens, stylish shopping and local food that’s as fresh as it gets.

Following the development, known as ‘The Rising’, visitors can now enjoy The Vinery Café Restaurant, The Coach House shop and exhibition, remodelled walled gardens and magnificent historic event spaces.

This was the largest restoration project in decades with an extensive renovation of existing historic buildings and the sympathetic addition of two impressive new buildings, all thoughtfully tied together with newly landscaped and meandering walkways.

The historic castle, located near Staindrop, completed the first phase of its redevelopment plans in 2022 with the opening of its woodland adventure playground, The Plotters’ Forest, which has become a firm favourite with families in the area and visitors from further afield.

Alan McKerchar, general manager at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens said: “The news of this latest award win is wonderful to hear, especially as this comes from positive feedback from our visitors.

“What a tremendous year it’s been for Raby Castle as we welcomed visitors to our new leisure destination. The whole design has been thoughtfully put together with our visitors’ experience as one of the biggest priorities and we can’t wait to see their ongoing feedback now that everyone has so much more to see, enjoy and do at Raby Castle.”

As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travellers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of great places to visit.

“Congratulations to High Force Hotel and Raby Castle, Park and Gardens on their recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2024,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “Travelers’ Choice honours businesses that consistently demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence. This means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took the time to go online and leave a great review about their experience. People rely on Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice seal to help them navigate the myriad of things to see, eat and do across the globe. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2024 and beyond.”

Tickets to access Raby Castle which is currently open Tuesday to Sunday between 11am and 4pm, can be purchased online in advance. An adult ticket is £18, a child ticket is £10 and a family ticket is £55 which also provides access to the Park and Gardens. More information can be found on the website www.raby.co.uk/whats-on/

To book a stay and for further details about High Force Hotel, including information about its summer escape offer, visit: www.raby.co.uk/high-force/hotel