Raby

Opening Times

High Force Waterfall Open Daily, 9am - 6pm
Hotel Open daily
Takeaway Kiosk Open weekends & holiday periods
Car Park Open 24hrs
Restaurant Open daily
FAQs Plan your Day
When
September 2026 - March 2027
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.

Stargazing Suppers

Dine. Discover. Gaze. High Force Hotel & Waterfall

Join us at High Force Hotel & Waterfall, one of the leading premium, hospitality-led stargazing experiences in England. Begin with a three-course seasonal supper dining experience, before heading out to witness the spectacle of the waterfall illuminated, providing a guaranteed emotional high point.

The North Pennines is a largely undiscovered area set within the natural beauty of the Durham Dales. Protected, stunning and unspoiled scenery of open heather moors, deep dales and tumbling rivers, which sets apart High Force Hotel & Waterfall from more established neighbouring destinations on a national level.

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

Dates for the 2026 season

October | 10th, 16th, 17th

November | 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th

2027 | January – March

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment

Book Now See our Stargazing Menu for the 26/27 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: £34 Child (5-15) | £39 Adult (16+)

Dates: Thursday 29th October

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid disappointment

Book Now

Stargazing Supper | A moment for the moon

A Specialist Lunar Experience at High Force limited to hotel guests only, designed for those who want to learn a deeper understanding into the dark sky.

Exclusive Experience – Limited to hotel guests only (package)

Three days after the Full Moon, join us for an immersive After Dark experience dedicated entirely to exploring the science, history and enduring fascination of our closest celestial neighbour.

Residential Package

£375 per couple sharing a Classic Double Room (£425 for a Deluxe Room)

Your overnight experience includes:

  • Classic Double, Deluxe Double bedroom
  • Three-course dinner in our beautiful Garden Room restaurant
  • Specialist lunar presentation by our professional astronomer
  • Open astronomy forum and discussion
  • Guided torchlit walk to the illuminated High Force Waterfall
  • Detailed lunar observation (weather permitting)
  • Full English breakfast the following morning

This is a deeper, more detailed session than our standard Stargazing Suppers, designed for those with genuine curiosity.

Why This Is Different

  • A specialist themed evening
  • Limited to just 20 guests
  • Residentially led
  • Intellectually richer
  • Part of our evolving After Dark series

To book: Simply follow the link to our sleep page, select Thursday 29th October and the room packages should appear 

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: 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th December

These special events are booking quickly! 

Book Now

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.

Stargazing at High Force 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.

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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