Raby Castle near Staindrop in County Durham has opened a 24-acre site called ‘the Rising’ featuring a remodelled walled garden, restored buildings and new spaces.
The visitor destination is Raby Castle’s largest and most significant project for decades. It involved renovating the site’s existing historic buildings, and adding two new buildings.
“Historic houses and gardens need to be able to offer an entertaining full day out for their visitors,” said Lord Barnard.
“This includes great service, beautiful surroundings, delicious food and drink and high-quality shopping experiences, events and exhibitions. We’re confident that the scheme will deliver this within a truly breathtaking setting.”
Restored buildings and new spaces
One of the new buildings is the Round House, a reception space for visitors where they can book tickets, select dining options, and discover new events and exhibitions.
Nearby, a new glasshouse called the Vinery contains a 200-seat restaurant, serving dishes made with locally sourced ingredients from across the estate.
Many of the castle’s heritage buildings were previously hidden from view. Now, they are accessible to the public and free to enter.
The 18th-century Coach House, for example, is now a new retail space. Additionally, the Riding School and Dutch Barn have been restored to become new event spaces.
Lord Barnard said the goal of the project was “to make Raby a place where all generations can enjoy a day out”.
Lady Barnard said: “Harry’s ancestors built only the best. Whether it is the hay barn or the coach house, they were designed by the best architects of the day and built by the best craftsmen.
“We have also been able to use skilled craftsmen and local or reclaimed materials to bring them back to life. It’s been a joy to be involved in this process.”
Raby Castle completed the first phase of its redevelopment plans in 2022 when it opened the Plotters’ Forest – a woodland-themed adventure playground.
Images courtesy of Raby Castle
