Raby

Opening Times

High Force Waterfall Open Daily, 10am - 8pm
Car Park Open 24hrs
Restaurant Open
Hotel Open
FAQs Plan your Day
When
August 2025 - March 2026
Where
High Force Hotel & Waterfall, Raby Castle, Park & Gardens.
Book Stargazing at High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Stargazing Experiences with Raby Estate

Step into a world of wonder as you explore the night sky from some of the darkest and most breath-taking locations in England. From the powerful presence of High Force Hotel & Waterfall to the historic beauty of Raby Castle, Park & Gardens, our stargazing events offer something truly special for every kind of explorer.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening with a three-course supper, a fun-filled family adventure, or a deeper dive into the science and stories of the cosmos — there’s a stargazing session waiting for you.

Join expert astronomers under the protected skies of the North Pennines National Landscape, and create unforgettable memories beneath a canopy of stars.

A Stargazing Experience for Everyone

Stargazing Suppers – High Force Hotel & Waterfall 

Begin your night with a delicious three-course supper & presentation before heading to the illuminated waterfall for expert-led stargazing beneath some of England’s darkest skies.

Family Stargazing – High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Perfect for curious young minds! A fun and educational evening exploring the night sky together with expert guides in a safe, family-friendly setting.

Under Dark Skies: A Deeper Look – High Force Hotel & Waterfall

For those who want to go beyond the basics. Dive into astronomy, science, and mythology in a relaxed, adult-focused session under the stars.

Festive Stargazing Suppers – High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Celebrate the season with a magical winter evening. Enjoy a festive supper, sparkling skies, and the peaceful beauty of High Force in winter.

Stargazing at Raby Castle, Park & Gardens

Join expert astronomers for an unforgettable night of stargazing in the atmospheric parkland of Raby Castle—ideal for all ages and experience levels.

Read more about our stargazing sessions below….

Guests stargazing with telescopes in the parkland of Raby Castle.

Stargazing Suppers

Dine. Discover. Gaze. High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Join us for a magical evening at High Force Hotel & Waterfall—one of England’s most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. Start with a three-course seasonal supper in the elegant Garden Room before heading to the waterfall, illuminated under the stars. Guided by expert astronomers, you’ll explore constellations, planets, and celestial myths under some of the darkest skies in the UK.

What’s Included:

  • 3-course dinner

  • Expert-led astronomy session in the Garden Room

  • A deeper exploration of stars, constellations, and celestial phenomena

  • Relaxed, intimate group setting perfect for thoughtful discussion

  • Illuminated walk to High Force Waterfall

Price: £77.50 per person | £65 for Raby Members

Remaining Dates for the 25/25 season

October 2025 – 21st, 22nd, 24th & 25th

November 2025 –  20th & 21st

January 2026 – 2nd, 3rd & 4th

February 2026 – 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 27th & 28th

March 2026 – 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 27th & 28th

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment

Book Now See our Stargazing Menu for the 25/26 Season

Family Stargazing

Adventure Under the Stars for All Ages. High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Designed especially for younger stargazers and curious minds, this family-friendly event offers a fun and educational way to explore the night sky together. Learn to identify stars and planets through interactive demonstrations and storytelling, all in a safe, engaging environment.

What’s Included:

  • Guided stargazing with fun, age-appropriate activities

  • Introduction to constellations and planets

  • Suitable for children aged 5+

Price: £15.00 per person

Dates: 29th & 30th October 2025 | 5pm & 7pm

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment

Book Now

Under Dark Skies: A Deeper Look

For the Curious, the Thoughtful, and the Inspired. High Force Hotel & Waterfall

If you’re ready to move beyond the basics of stargazing, this immersive evening is for you. Combining science, storytelling, and sky-watching, this session dives into the rich history, mythology, and mechanics of the universe in a relaxed and thoughtful setting.

What’s Included:

  • Expert-led astronomy talk blending science and mythology
  • A deeper exploration of stars, constellations, and celestial phenomena
  • Relaxed, intimate group setting perfect for thoughtful discussion
  • Illuminated walk to High Force Waterfall

Price: £49.00 Per Person

Dates: 17th & 18th October

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment!

Book Now

Festive Stargazing Suppers

A Starry Celebration of the Season. High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Celebrate the festive season with a magical winter evening of stargazing. Begin with a Christmas-inspired three-course supper, followed by a starlit walk to the waterfall and guided celestial exploration—perfect for couples, friends, or a special December treat.

What’s Included:

  • Festive 3-course supper

  • Expert-led astronomy talk blending science and mythology

  • A deeper exploration of stars, constellations, and celestial phenomena

  • Relaxed, intimate group setting perfect for thoughtful discussion

  • Illuminated winter walk to High Force Waterfall

  • Hot drinks and seasonal cheer

Price: £87.50 Per Person

Dates: 12th, 13th, 19th & 20th December

These special events are booking quickly! 

Book Now

Stargazing at Raby Castle

History Meets the Heavens. Raby Castle, Park & Gardens

Set in the majestic parkland of Raby Castle, Park & Gardens this enchanting evening pairs historical beauty with stellar views. Enjoy an expert talk in The Vinery before heading into one of the most iconic locations in the North East to stargaze.

What’s Included:

  • Outdoor stargazing with expert astronomers

  • Access to the castle’s parkland at night

  • Expert-led astronomy talk blending science and mythology

  • Relaxed, intimate group setting perfect for thoughtful discussion

Price: £30.00 per person

Dates: 18 & 25 October, 15 & 22 November, 13 December, 17 & 24 January

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment!

Book Now

I booked here for my husbands 50th birthday surprise. Dinner, bed & breakfast with a stargazing experience at the foot of High Force Waterfall. Absolutely superb, clean, comfortable, the food was exceptional and the staff superb. Well worth 5 stars. The stargazing was amazing, clear dark skies.

Lovely cosy hotel and a great stay as part of an overnight stargazing experience. Staff are very friendly and welcoming and the perfect hosts. Rooms are very well appointed, clean, welcoming and comfy. Hotel and bar areas are warm, welcoming and relaxing, and especially with the open fires making it all very homely.

I attended and stayed at the High Force Hotel on one of their stargazing evenings. What an amazing experience. The food, the staff and the event were all incredible. Every staff member goes above and beyond, a really lovely welcoming environment. Worth travelling! Highly recommend

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