The Rising at Raby Castle is an exciting new development which is set to be a top visitor destination this summer in the North East for those from the area, as well as those visiting from further afield.
Having just opened its doors, this ambitious project brings together a unique destination comprising romantic gardens, carefully restored heritage buildings, locally sourced food offerings and a brand new shopping experience. A considered development led by Lord and Lady Barnard, it carries the distinctive trademark of Raby, a simple, honest design combined with the Estate’s energy and spirit. With sustainability at its heart, The Rising at Raby Castle has been built using many materials from the estate to reduce any adverse impact on the environment. Many of the buildings have been carefully designed to replicate the original buildings and repurposed materials have been used to create them.
As you wander through The Rising, there is a feeling that it has always been there, blending seamlessly into its surroundings, respecting previous buildings and the much loved gardens. There has been full community involvement with many staff coming together to support the development creating a strong sense of ownership and community across the estate.
The original walled garden has been redesigned by Lady Barnard alongside world renowned designer Luciano Giubbilei to create a five acre tranquil delight. Together they have ensured the preservation of original features such as the beautiful yew hedges and the iconic Raby fig, whilst also incorporating new ideas like the grassed amphitheatre and a series of unique mazes.
The recent addition of the wisteria archway is sure to become a well loved, well photographed spot within the development. Sitting amongst the gardens is the beautiful fig house which is set to become a stunning spot for afternoon tea and fine dining in the future.
The vinery cafe is set in the stunning glasshouse. Built in the style of the original glasshouse it seats over two hundred people across three spaces. Careful consideration has been given to create space and comfort while still giving a stylish place to eat and relax with friends and family.
Using locally sourced ingredients from the estate, the food offerings have been carefully thought out and chosen to ensure a stunning menu for all ages, price points and dietary requirements. No mean feat but one which has been planned meticulously: think vibrant salads using produce from the estate, home cooked bakes and the most decadent cakes.
The views from The Vinery stretch across the gardens to the castle and park, making this a prime spot to sit back, relax and refuel.
Many other buildings that were previously hidden from the public have been restored as part of the project. The coach House and Stables, a Grade 11 listed building, has been repurposed to provide a unique shopping experience including homewares, gardening accessories and gifts.
The Dutch barn is one of Raby’s best kept secrets and is an open, arcaded building which has stunning exposed beams and the restored, original ventilation stack making this building quite a showstopper in terms of its architectural appeal.
The Barn will house a range of activities such as events and a continuation of the current seasonal markets that Raby is well known for.
The riding school is another architectural gem that is now a huge 500 square metre event space which will house large events, parties and conferences. Celebrating in style in the presence of heritage features within a parkland setting will rival any glamorous ballroom event.
Alongside the Rising, Raby Castle offers many other attractions to ensure you enjoy a full day out for the whole family. The Plotters’ Forest, which opened in April 2022 ,is already a firm favourite with local families and tourists coming to the area. The Plotters’ Forest offers a stunning wooden play structure set within the original Christmas Tree plantation. A secret adventure in the trees that offers children an imaginative and creative outdoor experience.
The deer park is a longstanding and much loved attraction in the North East and is marked as a park and garden of special interest. Explore the 200 acres across the estate and meet the herds of red and fallow deer roaming free. With a fascinating history, Raby is one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England. Tours around the castle are available to add to your day.
For more information check out the Raby Estate website.
Review and images by Maria Davison @girlabout_thenortheast
