Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

About

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a timeless destination that offers an unforgettable experience for group visits. Immerse yourselves in centuries of history, explore breath-taking architecture, and embrace the natural beauty of our expansive grounds and gardens. Groups from across the country and overseas come to visit one of the finest medieval castles in the UK. From bespoke visits to behind-the-scenes and afternoon teas, our group visits cater for all needs and interests.

If you are travelling with a group of 16 or more people, book your visit in advance and receive the following benefits to make your group visit as easy and stress free as possible including:
-Discounted and fast-track admission
-Free designated coach parking at Raby Castle
-Complimentary admission for the group organiser*
-Complimentary admission for your coach driver*
-A personal meet and greet on arrival
-Personalised booking
-Familiarisation visits can be arranged for group organiser(s)

Visit Options:
Free Flow – Explore the castle, park and gardens at your group’s leisure, creating your very own personalised experience.

Guided Tours - Join one of our knowledgeable senior guides to discover the fascinating history of the castle and those who lived here and then explore the recently remodelled walled gardens and the picturesque parklands at your own leisure.

Specialist Tours - Elevate your Raby experience with specialised tours, from behind the scenes to spotlight on the archives.
Afternoon Tea & Tour - Add an extra special touch to your group visit with a delicious afternoon served in the beautiful new Vinery Café Restaurant.
Castle, Park and Play - Enjoy all three attractions, including The Plotters' Forest outdoor immersive playground located in Raby’s Christmas tree plantation.

Garden Tours - Join a member of our gardens team and experience our newly reimagined 5-acre walled gardens like never before.
Additional Extras - We have many additional extras to provide that special touch to your visit including welcome refreshments and delicious group lunches.

Why not combine your trip with a visit to the incredible High Force?
High Force is one of the UK’s most impressive Waterfalls. Visitors come from all over the country to witness its mighty power and unforgettable beauty which is equally as glorious at the height of summer or covered in a sprinkling of snow.

For more information or to book please contact our team on 01833 660202 or email admin@raby.co.uk

2025
As we welcome the warmth of summer and look ahead to the rich colours of autumn, it's a wonderful time to explore the seasonal tour experiences available at Raby Castle, Park & Gardens as part of our 2025 offer.

Alongside our 2025 group booking offers, we are pleased to highlight three experiences revealing fascinating stories that bring new layers of Raby’s history to life.

The Story of Raby and the Railways
This small exhibition, coinciding with the S&DR200 Festival, journeys through time, tunnelling into Raby’s archives and collections to discover stories of railway development. From the surveyors who mapped the local terrain to the Dukes and Duchesses who enjoyed glamourous tours to Europe. Groups can enjoy exploring the Castle on a FreeFlow tour, plus a half-hour exhibition talk with a member of our Curation and Archives team exploring the background to the exhibition and the research carried out. 

Raby and the Royal Family
Raby offers a reflective backdrop for this regal tour, commemorating the castle’s historic links with royalty. Beginning with Raby’s origins as a manor belonging to King Canute in the early 11th century, we will guide you through almost 1,000 years of Raby’s history, revealing stories of love, friendship, plots and treason. The tour will highlight paintings, furniture and collections which shed light on Raby’s unique royal connections, and take you behind the scenes to rooms created for important visitors.

Women of Raby
Celebrate the powerful women who helped shape the story of Raby through the centuries. From the familiar history of Cecily Neville, known as the ‘Rose of Raby’, to the lesser-known experiences of the women who worked in the household, this surprising tour will put working women, botanists, artists, and court influencers under the spotlight. The tour will also explore how women are depicted in some of the most iconic artworks in the castle collection. Join our Senior Guides for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into rooms beyond the public route and gain an insight into these historic women who have shaped Raby’s future today.

Whether guests are soaking up the summer sunshine in the gardens or enjoying an atmospheric autumn stroll through the Deer Park, Raby offers an unforgettable experience for every season.