Highly anticipated ticket launch for Raby Castle's magical Christmas experiences, including new event for furry friends
Tickets for Raby Castle, Park and Gardens' enchanting Christmas programme are now on sale, with a packed calendar of festive experiences for all ages, including a brand new event created especially for dogs.
Making its debut this year is Santa-Paws, a festive experience where four-legged visitors can meet Father Christmas in the cosy Yuletide Yurt. Alongside a memorable photo opportunity, every canine guest will receive a special Christmas treat to enjoy on the big day.
Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens said: “Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a festive experience for the furry members of the family and our new Santa-Paws event ensures that no one is left out of the Christmas celebrations at Raby.
“We’ve held numerous dog events here, including Bark in the Park, plus our Deer Park is a fantastic place for owners to walk their furry companions – and it’ll be wonderful to now share the festive magic with man’s best friend.”
This year's festive programme promises something for everyone, whether visiting as a family, couple or group of friends.
Alongside returning favourites such as Father Christmas at Raby Castle, festive afternoon tea and the ever-popular Christmas Market, visitors can also enjoy creative seasonal workshops, magical family adventures in The Plotters' Forest, and the opportunity to experience the historic castle beautifully dressed for Christmas.
Following its hugely successful debut last year, Raby Castle at Christmas returns after reopening the castle during the festive season for the first time in 50 years. The immersive experience tells the story of Christmas Day at Raby Castle, taking visitors on a journey through the traditions and celebrations of the historic estate.
This year's experience has been expanded, with two additional rooms joining the ground floor route to reveal another side of Christmas at Raby.
Visitors will step inside the Servants' Hall, where estate staff would once have gathered to eat, sew and relax, before discovering the castle kitchen, transformed through an immersive installation by renowned designer Tom Le Bon. The display captures the atmosphere, excitement and careful preparation behind one of the most important meals of the year.
New projection technology and enhanced lighting effects have also been introduced for 2026, creating an even more immersive experience throughout the castle. On selected evenings, visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy the installation by candlelight.
Tickets also go on sale for the ever-popular Father Christmas at Raby Castle experience, which sells out each year and gives families the opportunity to meet Father Christmas in one of the North of England's most magical historic settings.
Families can also book Mr and Mrs Claus in the Yuletide Yurt and The Enchanted Forest Trail, which winds through The Plotters' Forest adventure playground among the Christmas tree plantation. Available on selected dates, visitors can enjoy the trail during the day or experience it at dusk, when sparkling lights illuminate the trees and festive clues await discovery along the route.
Creative workshops also return this Christmas, including the much-loved Christmas Pudding Masterclass in early November.
Floristry resident Deborah Simpson Boston, owner of Periwinkle Barn, will once again lead a series of festive wreath-making workshops in early December. Using British flowers and seasonal foliage, participants can create their own handcrafted wreath to take home. Additional workshops include festive garland making, luxury Christmas door swags and elegant Christmas tablescapes.
Visitors looking to indulge in festive food can once again book seasonal afternoon teas and Christmas treats from the end of July.
On selected dates throughout December, the magnificent Entrance Hall inside the castle will host Raby's popular festive afternoon tea alongside a castle tour. Festive afternoon tea will also be served in The Vinery Café, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the castle while dining.
High Force Hotel and Waterfall
Several festive experiences at High Force Hotel and Waterfall, part of the Raby Estate, are already available to book.
Throughout December, High Force Hotel will host festive dining experiences, while guests looking for a relaxing Christmas escape can enjoy a luxurious three-night Christmas package.
Running from 24th to 27th December 2026, the package includes dinner on Christmas Eve, a traditional four-course Christmas Day lunch, transport to and from the Boxing Day pantomime at Darlington Hippodrome, a full country breakfast each morning and dog-friendly accommodation for those wishing to bring their pets.
The hotel is also offering December dining, Twixmas breaks and New Year's Eve stays. Festive dining is priced at £28 for two courses or £32 for three courses.
Based on two people sharing, the Christmas package is priced from £1,315 for a Cosy Room, £1,420 for a Classic Room and £1,570 for a Deluxe Room.
Raby Estates offers memorable group visits across both Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and High Force Hotel and Waterfall. Groups of 16 or more benefit from discounted admission when booking in advance, together with a personalised booking service designed to make organising visits simple and stress free.
Both destinations offer designated coach parking, while all pre-booked groups receive complimentary admission for the coach driver and group organiser.
Groups can also enhance their visit with optional extras including welcome refreshments, group lunches and specialist guided tours.
To book a group visit to Raby Estates, or to find out more, please contact admin@raby.co.uk or call 01833 660202.
