First Look at the New Raby Castle at Christmas Experience
Ahead of its official opening this weekend, the first images of Raby Castle’s brand-new Christmas installation have now been released.
For the first time in fifty years, the medieval castle will welcome visitors throughout the festive season for Raby Castle at Christmas, an immersive experience designed by custodian and creative director Lady Barnard. The installation transports visitors back to the Edwardian era, offering a glimpse into how the Vane family celebrated Christmas at the turn of the 20th century.
Featuring eight beautifully decorated ground-floor rooms, the experience reveals the story of Christmas Day at Raby Castle, guiding guests through the family’s traditions and celebrations.
Lady Barnard said: “After months of planning and researching, and a wonderful couple of weeks dressing the rooms and adding our personal touches throughout, I’m proud to be opening Raby Castle at Christmas.
“Every corner has a sprinkling of Christmas magic, with stunning decorations and twinkling lights and that indescribable excitement that Christmas Day brings, as well as a snapshot into Raby’s past and a festive atmosphere that I hope will create lasting memories during people’s celebrations this year.”
The journey begins with a short introductory film before visitors explore an Edwardian Christmas at Raby - from the early morning thrill of opening stockings by the fire to an evening of elegant dining and traditional Christmas games.
The experience also showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees, seasonal floristry, and rarely seen items from the castle archives, selected to bring to life a historic Christmas Day at Raby.
Lady Barnard added: “Learning more about how the family celebrated Christmas over 100 years ago has been a fascinating experience, and there are some lovely similarities to our current family traditions too.”
Visitors can complete their festive day with a seasonal afternoon tea at The Vinery, taking in panoramic views of the medieval castle. The tea features three tiers of seasonal treats, including freshly made sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of miniature cakes, with an optional glass of fizz for an extra treat.
Raby Castle at Christmas is a self-guided experience running from Saturday 22 November to Sunday 4 January (excluding 25–28 December) between 11am and 4pm.
Two candlelit evenings will also take place on Saturday 13 and 20 December, offering the chance to experience the decorated rooms in a magical new light, followed by late-night festive shopping at the Coach House.
Tickets are priced at £22 for adults, £7 for children (up to 15 years), and £55 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Under-fours go free. Tickets include entry to Raby Castle at Christmas, as well as access to the Walled Gardens and Deer Park.
For tickets: www.raby.co.uk/events/raby-castle-at-christmas/
To discover more about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and the full Christmas offering: www.raby.co.uk/christmas/