• A 45 minute experience which will start in Hunters Yard, where we gather the group together and lead you to the Castle. Please dress warm as there may be a short time to wait outside. The Footman will greet you at the Castle and show you to your seats near the toasty log fire. Father Christmas will entertain everyone by telling a special story and singing songs, assisted by his footmen to get the whole audience involved. Father Christmas will check his list and give a special gift to each child.
• A special gift given personally by Father Christmas
• Deer Park access 10am – 4pm
• Complimentary Christmas Deer Park Trail

Christmas at Raby Castle is a very magical time with all sorts going on. Why not arrive early and experience

• The Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail a magical experience where twinkling lights and festive music guide your path through a captivating winter wonderland.
• The Yurt Café serving an array of festive delights including Gingerbread Lattes and Hot Chocolates
• The Stables Shop which will be transformed into a magical Christmas Shop – perfect for buying those last minute gifts
• You can also purchase your very own, freshly cut, Nordman Fir to Norway Spruce Christmas Tree

Father Christmas at Raby Castle is a special event and all visitors must purchase tickets as these are not included with your membership.

Each session will last around 45 minutes from gathering at the gate including the story telling and handing out of gifts.

Please arrive within plenty of time by the Yurt Cafe where you may enjoy a hot chocolate and a look in our Christmas Shop. You need to be at the Fireside Stories Meet and Greet point at least 10 minutes before your session. There may be a short time to wait outside so please dress warm. Follow signage to the Café once you have parked.

From 2021 we will no longer print invitations to meet with our sustainability promise.

It is your responsibility to arrive on time for your time slot. Please plan and check for anything that might delay you, road closures, weather etc. Unfortunately, late arrivals cannot be guaranteed entry or be transferred to another time slot.

There is ample car parking in the grounds of Raby Castle. Please follow signage or instructions from staff to parking areas once you arrive at Raby.

The Yurt Café will be open during your visit. Takeaway hot drinks and festive treats will be available.

Your experience starts with a walk to the Castle. It is possible to meet the group at the Castle gates adjacent to the accessible parking area, if required, however please let us know in advance if you require this. If you are able to join the walk, accessible parking is available in the main car park. There is level entry into the Entrance Hall. Please call 01833 660202 for further information and to explain your specific needs and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times when visiting Raby Castle.

There will be time for a quick photo as your child receives their gift from Father Christmas so make sure you bring your camera or a phone that is fully charged with spare memory space!

Due to space limitations, we can only welcome up to 2 accompanying adults per child. Each child ticket includes 1 adult, if you would like to bring an additional adult, please select the ticket option for 1 child incl. 2 adults.

Under 1’s will be classed as ‘babes in arms’ and do not require a ticket unless you’d like them to have the full Christmas experience and receive a gift from Father Christmas and have their name read out as part of the event.

We allow you to decide whether this event is suitable for your child, but it is naturally aimed at young children who still believe in the magic of Christmas. Children of all ages will enjoy the spectacle of arriving at Raby Castle and seeing it decorated for Christmas, seeing Father Christmas, listening to and taking part in songs and receiving their gift. They must be able to sit for around 30 minutes of interactive entertainment. Each child taking part in the experience, including receiving a gift, must have a valid ticket for entry.

We suggest bringing a camera and dress warm as there is a short walk between the Castle and car park and you might be required to wait outside for a short time.

Raby Castle, Staindrop, Darlington, Co Durham, DL2 3AH

Unfortunately, due to the popularity of this event, there are no refunds or cancellations permitted. Please be sure that when you make your reservation, you know exactly which date and which time slot you wish to secure. If you have an extremely unfortunate circumstance, a ticket transfer will be considered subject to availability and an administration charge will apply. The event will still take place in rain or snow and weather cancellations are extremely rare. In the event of cancellation, you will be notified immediately and given a complete refund or the opportunity to reschedule (subject to availability).

You can call the office at Raby Castle on 01833 660202 between the hours of 9am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, or email admin@raby.co.uk