Raby Castle's new exhibition awarded National Accolade.
An engaging new exhibition, featuring narration by BBC Countryfile presenter Matt Baker MBE, has earned a prestigious national accolade from VisitEngland.
Launched in June 2024, the exhibition at Raby Castle, Park, and Gardens in County Durham is housed within the recently renovated, Grade II* listed Coach House and Stables. It explores the estate's rich history while highlighting the diverse wildlife thriving in the picturesque Teesdale countryside.
The ‘Best Told Story’ Award, part of VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Accolades, was granted after the site achieved over 90% in a quality assessment covering aspects such as visitor experience, cleanliness, catering, and staff. The VisitEngland assessor praised Raby Castle’s transformation of a previously underused area into a vibrant visitor attraction.
Claire Jones, Head of Leisure and Tourism at Raby Estates, said: “We are delighted to have received the Best Told Story award from VisitEngland. The development not only preserves the heritage of the Coach House and Stables but also provides an engaging space to share the fascinating story of the Raby Estate with our visitors.”
This accolade celebrates attractions that deliver compelling storytelling, whether through innovative technology or passionate, knowledgeable teams. At Raby, the exhibition includes an audio-visual experience projected onto a bespoke eight-metre oak table crafted from estate timber, showcasing the breath-taking landscapes of Teesdale, including High Force Waterfall.
Claire added: “We wanted to create a free-to-enter exhibition that reveals the estate’s unique landscapes, farming heritage, and environmental stewardship. This development also integrates with our ‘eat, see, shop’ ethos, offering visitors more to explore within the Coach House and Stables.”
The new development at Raby Castle has become a destination in its own right, featuring a stylish eatery, retail spaces, event areas, and a remodelled Walled Garden.
In addition to the exhibition, Raby Castle has introduced a reimagined visitor welcome area, The Housekeeper’s Sitting Room, which offers insights into the castle’s medieval history through a detailed introductory film and a hand-painted family tree mural of its historic owners.
Visitors can also enjoy guided tours led by Raby Castle’s dedicated team of volunteers, known for their engaging stories about the estate’s history.
Raby Castle, Deer Park, and Gardens are open daily from 10am to 4pm, with the castle open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm. Admission prices are £17 for adults and £6.50 for children aged 4-15, with free entry for children under four. Family tickets are available for £49.
Tickets and further details are available at www.raby.co.uk.