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- 26th Feb 2025
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Raby Castle reopens: Step inside the 14th-century gem and discover what’s new for 2025
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Good news history lovers and adventure seekers, Raby Castle is throwing open its grand 14th-century doors once again this Saturday (1st March).
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of history, stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes, then this is your sign to visit one of the most impressive intact medieval castles in the country.
Steeped in centuries of royal drama, Raby Castle has been home to the powerful Neville family, witnessed the plotting of the Rising of the North and even played a role in the English Civil War.
But today? It’s an enchanting escape where you can step back in time, explore spectacular rooms and soak up the beauty of its historic deer park.
With a new exciting lineup of talks, workshops and events for 2025, there’s never been a better time to visit. The best part? Every castle ticket includes access to the stunning deer park and walled gardens.
A PEEK INSIDE: WHAT TO EXPECT AT RABY CASTLE
From the moment you set foot on the castle grounds, you get a wow feeling. The recent restoration scheme which opened in June 2024 has hugely opened up many iconic spaces with a view of the castle as you set into the grounds.
As you head through the gardens towards the castle you’ll be transported back in time. Originally designed as a moated fortress, Raby Castle features massive towers, curtain walls and one of the most complete medieval interiors in the country.
STEP INTO CENTURIES OF HISTORY
Nestled in Raby Castle’s walls lie plenty of stories and its grand rooms have seen centuries of history unfold. The Barons’ Hall witnessed the dramatic plotting of the Rising of the North in 1569, while the Octagon Drawing Room is a rare gem from the 1840s, beautifully restored to its original splendour.
The Blue Bedroom once hosted noble VIP guests – imagine the important figures who rested here. The Victorian Dining Room showcases stunning artwork, while the medieval kitchen, dating back to 1360, remains nearly untouched, complete with original copper moulds once used for fancy feasts.
Beyond the rooms, Raby Castle has an incredible collection of art, textiles and furniture from the 17th to 21st centuries, featuring works by Sir Alfred Munnings and Luca Giordano.
HIDDEN GEMS YOU CAN’T MISS
Beyond the grand halls and stately rooms, Raby Castle is filled with plenty of hidden gems to discover.
Here are a few to keep an eye out for…
A hidden musical treasure: a seemingly ordinary cabinet in the Small Drawing Room hides a 200-year-old musical barrel organ that once entertained noble guests.
Porcelain pagodas: these stunning pieces in the library once adorned the historic Chinese Salon at Raby.
The Raby fig tree: first brought to the castle in the 18th century, this tree still produces fruit every year.
The historic deer herd: these majestic creatures roaming the grounds have called Raby home for hundreds of years.
The Dutch Barn: a rustic yet elegant venue used for special outdoor events today set within the castle grounds
Don’t miss out on this free exciting quest
For families and young explorers, discover the Raby Castle Quest Trail. Answer fun challenges, explore the castle’s incredible interiors and discover its hidden stories. The best part? It’s FREE with your castle ticket.
RABY CASTLE TODAY
While Raby Castle is steeped in medieval history, it’s also embracing the future with its newly completed Rising Developments – a stunning transformation that celebrates the past while adding fresh, exciting spaces.
Start your visit at the Vinery Café, a beautifully airy reimagining of the castle’s old glasshouse – perfect for coffee, cake, or a long lunch. Then, explore the Coach House & Stables, a carefully restored 18th-century gem with beautiful character.
And if shopping is on your list, don’t miss the new retail space, showcasing unique homeware and gifts, all displayed on reclaimed estate furniture.
Garden lovers you have to visit the Walled Garden, redesigned by renowned landscape artist Luciano Giubbilei, featuring Raby’s famous yew hedges and an 18th-century fig tree.
While you’re there, make sure to visit Deer Park (included in your ticket) and join the Deer Park Safari to find out more about the resident deer. Plus, there are plenty of winter walks to explore too.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: EVENTS AT RABY CASTLE IN MARCH
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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