Raby Castle is stepping into the middle ages with a Horrible Histories Takeover

raby — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:04:31 +0000

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/

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The Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail, Park and Garden Tickets

raby — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 10:02:23 +0000

Adventure awaits in The Plotters’ Forest

Come and explore our immersive adventure playground at Raby Castle. Nestled within our natural Christmas tree plantation, families can enjoy being surrounded by nature as they climb, slide and jump to their heart’s content.

Parents can relax among the tree tops on the deck of our Plotters’ Pantry with a coffee and cake while children run-a-muck in the forest. We also have a designated toddler area for little explorers next door.

Tickets are timed and give you up to 2 hours of playtime in The Plotters’ Forest, plus full day access into the Walled Gardens and our 200 acres of Deer Park where we hold family activities and adventure trails throughout the year.

For more information

What is Included in my ticket?

2 hours of play in The Plotters’ Forest
Complimentary Children’s Trail Sheet
Full day access to The Walled Gardens (10am – 4pm)
Full day access to The Deer Park (10am-4pm)

What else is at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens?

Extend your family day out with a visit to explore inside Raby Castle. Raby is without a doubt one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England, with a powerful exterior and superb collections.
To complete your family day out, why not join us for a delicious lunch, coffee or sweet treat at The Vinery, which proudly present handcrafted dishes inspired or sourced from the beautiful Raby Estate.
Complete your day by having a browse in our beautiful new retail space in The Coach House. You’ll find a curated selection of homeware and gifts displayed on reclaimed furniture from across the estate. Our philosophy at Raby is local wherever possible, and here in the Coach House you’ll discover the kind of high-quality, artisan items you can’t shop anywhere else.
Showcasing Raby Estate’s rich past, the Coach House will house a free-to-enter exhibition, giving visitors a taste of what is to come when venturing into the historic castle, surrounding parklands and wider areas of the Estate. The centrepiece of this exciting exhibition will be an audio-visual projection onto a bespoke carved oak eight metre table. The projection will showcase the unique Teesdale landscape, part of the wider Estate, and highlight iconic landmarks such as High Force Waterfall, as well as the sights and sounds of the local area and wildlife

Daytime Enchanted Trail

Entry slots: 10am–4pm | Access to Deer Park & Gardens: 10am–4pm

December 2025 – 29th, 30th, 31st

January 2026 – 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th

Wander through our winter wonderland during daylight hours and enjoy the Christmas Trail with full access to The Plotters’ Forest play equipment, plus a special festive treat for children at the end of their adventure.

Your Day Ticket includes:

Entry to the Enchanted Christmas Trail
2 hours of play in The Plotters’ Forest Adventure Playground
A festive treat for each child
Full-day access to the Deer Park and Walled Gardens
Please note: This experience does not include meeting Father Christmas.
Please note: Adults must be accompanied by a child for access

The Plotters’ Forest has a special Discounted Price for the New Year’s Day for the Charity Opening in the Deer Park and Gardens. Tickets purchased between 2nd – 4th January are included in the Unlimited January Offer, allowing unlimited access into the Deer Park and Gardens throughout January 2026.

Book Now