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Raby Castle


Staindrop, Darlington, Co Durham, DL2 3AH

t:01833 660202
e:admin@rabycastle.com
w:www.rabycastle.com

This impressive and complete 14th century fortress of the powerful Nevills, with nine towers set in 200 acres of landscaped deer park, has been home to Lord Barnard's family since 1626. Victorian restoration by Burn includes the Octogan Drawing Room and extensions of the Barons' Hall to 132-ft. There are fine collections including paintings, furniture, Meissen porcelain and arms. The medieval Great Kitchen and Servants' Hall survive.

Highlights include the vast Barons Hall where it is reputed that 700 knights gathered to plot a rebellion against Elizabeth I, a splendid Victorian octagonal drawing room that has re-emerged as one of the most striking interiors from the 19th century and in contrast a mediaeval kitchen, used until 1954. Raby’s treasures include an important collection of Meissen porcelain, fine furniture and artworks, including paintings by Munnings, De Hooch, Reynolds, Van Dyck and Teniers.

This property offers free access to HHA Friends and Members during normal opening hours - please check opening times.

Visitor Opening TimesBack to top


2013: Castle: May, June, September: Sunday-Wednesday. July & August: daily (except Saturdays). 1pm-4.30pm
Park & Gardens: (as Castle) 11am-5pm

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS ENTRY SUPERSEDES THE ENTRY IN THE HANDBOOK

Please contact the property for up to date opening times

Film LocationsBack to top

Raby Castle and the extensive Raby Estate is available as a film location. As well as the mediaeval exterior of the Castle, some rooms are available for internal filming. The Castle is set in around 200 acres of undulating deer park, with two lakes. There is also an 18th century walled garden. The Estate covers a large acreage and land use ranges from arable farming to small upland farmsteads on the moors in a designated AONB. There are numerous estate buildings including the Home Farm, Bath House, Laundry House and follies.

Previously Raby has been used in: Elizabeth - Working Title, Jonathan Creek - Christmas Special, Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen - BBC

Educational FacilitiesBack to top

With historic reference from the Middle Ages through to the Victorian era Raby Castle is ideal for a school visit. Experienced Guides tailor each individual visit specifically to the needs of your group, taking into account factors such as age and national curriculum requirements. Guides enhance the motivational tours by involving a degree of story telling. A Castle Tour takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Minimum group size of 20.

After the educational tour there is so much more to see and experience, such as, the horse-drawn carriage collection, deer park and walled garden.

Children are welcome in the Gift Shop in small, supervised groups, alternatively, goody bags can be especially made for any budget.

Groups and special visitsBack to top

Raby Castle, the home of Lord Barnard, is a magnificent medieval castle in Teesdale, County Durham with stunning halls and chambers, deer park, walled gardens, gift shop and tearooms. Groups are able to visit the castle, park and gardens in various ways. Free Flow visits are available throughout the season, with an optional introductory talk. VIP Private Guided Tours of the Castle are available on weekday mornings.



Tailor Made Facilities
Visits to HouseYes
Visits to GardenYes
Other EventsNo
Light RefreshmentsYes
LunchYes
DinnerNo
Contact Details
Contact:    Administration Office
Address:    Raby Castle
    Staindrop
Town:    Darlington
County:    Co Durham
Postcode:    DL2 3AH
Phone:    01833 660202
Email:    admin@rabycastle.com

Corporate FunctionsBack to top

Raby Castle offers an exclusive location for a special corpoate function. There are extensive grounds where marquees can be erected. Internally there are two magnificent halls that can be used. Each enquiry is dealt with on an individual basis and is subject to approval by the Owner.

Corportate events have included product launches, presentations, dinners, award ceremonies and vehicle testing days.

Visit www.rabycastle.com for more information

Open for visits

Nearby HHA Properties

Rokeby Park (5  miles)
Eggleston Hall (8  miles)
St Nicholas (13  miles)
Millgate House & Garden (13  miles)
Marrick Priory (15  miles)