COUNTY DURHAM CASTLE UNVEILS NEW FESTIVE EVENTS FOR CHRISTMAS 2024

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a festive destination famed for its sell-out events and this year, organisers are inviting visitors to two new magical experiences, perfect for families and friends this Christmas.  

There is a unique opportunity to step inside the County Durham Castle and enjoy Christmas in the Entrance Hall. This is a new chance to see inside one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England at Christmas time and explore the ornately decorated hall, gaze up at the towering Christmas trees and warm up by the crackling open fireside. Visitors can also take a group photo in front of the awe-inspiring Christmas tree and admire the State Carriage.  

For families with little ones, they can Meet Mr and Mrs Claus at the Yuletide Yurt – an experience that will create cherished memories. Children with tickets will receive a gift from Santa Claus himself and as part of the ticket, families will get to enter the 18th century Walled Gardens and Deer Park for a truly scenic experience.  

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estates, said: “We’re always eager to give people a reason to return to Raby Castle and we think these two new events are real gems in the County Durham Christmas calendar. Making memories, creating picture-perfect moments together and giving people an opportunity to do something special with their loved ones is at the heart of our events – whilst providing a wonderful winter day out!” 

As well as the new additions to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens’ festive programme, the medieval castle also plays host to a popular Christmas market filled with artisan creations. This year the market will be taking place in the newly transformed Riding School and Dutch Barn from Saturday 30th November – Sunday 1st December. The Christmas Market is a wonderful way to celebrate the start of advent whilst picking up some thoughtful and unique gifts for loved ones.  

On select dates throughout November and December children can embark on a festive adventure in The Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail. Explore the winter wonderland during the day and play or visit during dusk and be dazzled by twinkling lights peeking through the pine trees. All youngsters that complete The Plotters’ Forest’s Enchanted Christmas Trail will receive a treat they can treasure.  

To take the Christmas spirit home, people can also visit Raby Castle’s Coach Yard and purchase their Christmas Tree. Soak up the atmosphere and spruce scents with a hot chocolate and peruse the beautifully curated Coach House Shop to extend the experience. Nordman Fir and Norway Spruce will be amongst the species selection on offer with trees to suit every home.  

Raby Estate’s High Force Hotel, which is a 30-minute drive away, will be open throughout the festive months offering Christmas afternoon teas on the 8th, 15th and 22nd December, festive dining options and overnight stays in the build up to the big day itself. 

The magnificent High Force Waterfall is just across the road from the hotel and offers an unbeatable scenic spot for those welcome winter walks.  

Christmas in the Entrance Hall will be taking place on 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th and 17th December between 11am and 2pm. Tickets are £15 for adults, £9.50 for children aged between 4 and 15 years and children under three go free. Standard Deer Park & Gardens tickets can also be upgraded for exclusive access to the Grand Entrance Hall. 

The Meet Mr and Mrs Claus at the Yuletide Yurt experience is available on 1st, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd December with timeslots available from 10am - 4pm. On Sunday 8th December at 10 – 11am, there will be a quiet sensory meet and greet session with no music or lights with reduced numbers. An £18 ticket provides entry for one child and two adults, and additional adult tickets can be purchased for £9 each. 

Entry to the Christmas market is £2 for adults when pre-booked or £5 for adults on the day. Children go free. 

Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail will be taking place in the day on selected dates from 16th November to the 5th January between 10am – 2pm and at night on selected dates from 4th December to the 23rd December between 4pm–6pm.  

Day tickets are £9 for adults and £10 for children (aged 1-11 years) and night tickets are £6 for adults and £8 for children (aged 1-11 years). Children under one go free. Please note that night tickets do not include use of the play equipment.   

The Christmas afternoon tea at High Force Hotel is £25 for adults and £15.50 for children. A small admission to High Force Waterfall is £7 for two adults or £11 for a family ticket (two adults and three children).  

For further details about Raby Castle and its festive events, visit: www.raby.co.uk