Raby Castle’s recently redesigned landscape and remodelled 18th-century Walled Gardens have achieved second place in the prestigious 2025 European Garden Awards.

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The County Durham landmark was recognised in the Management or Development of a Historic Park or Garden category, sharing second place with the South Cliff Gardens in the UK. First prize went to the Promenades de Reims in France.

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Since 2010, around 140 winners from 23 countries have received a European Garden Award for outstanding work in preserving historic gardens, creating contemporary designs, and championing climate adaptation in green spaces.

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Raby’s success comes as a result of a three-year regeneration project completed in 2024. The transformation was led by award-winning garden designer Luciano Giubbilei, working in creative collaboration with Lady Barnard on the Walled Gardens, and acclaimed landscape architect Alistair Baldwin, who redesigned the castle’s extensive public areas.

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Lady Barnard, creative director and custodian of Raby Castle and Estates, said:
"We're immensely proud to have achieved international recognition for the beautiful gardens and spaces throughout Raby Castle’s grounds, and I’d like to extend my thanks and congratulations to both Luciano and Alistair. The spaces they have created are elegant, tranquil, and perfectly encapsulate the fascinating heritage of Raby."

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Raby Castle’s Walled Gardens are also shortlisted for the Historic Houses 2025 Garden of the Year Award, sponsored by Christie’s. This national award celebrates gardens with outstanding horticultural merit and public appeal.

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Dickon Harding, gardens and landscape manager, praised the team’s dedication:
"The gardens team have worked exceptionally hard to maintain the impressive vision of both Luciano and Lady Barnard. It’s been wonderful to see how the three distinct areas within the Walled Gardens have matured through the seasons, and we feel an immense sense of pride to work in such a beautiful, historic place. Winning the Garden of the Year Award would be a brilliant achievement — thank you to everyone who has already voted for Raby."

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Raby is one of eight shortlisted gardens chosen from hundreds that welcome Historic Houses members each year. Voting is open now until 31 August at: www.historichouses.org/vote-goya/

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For more information about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle