Flora, Fauna and a Fortress

The ‘Rose of Raby’ sets the scene. This particular ‘rose’, Cecily Neville, was born at Raby Castle in 1415 and today the castle’s 18th century walled garden is still a place to ‘stop and smell the roses’ whilst marvelling at fine old yew hedges and enjoying the clipped formality of sweeping lawns.

Cecily Neville, Duchess of York, became the mother of two English kings, Edward IV and Richard III and so assured Raby’s place in national history.
More recently, ITV’s historic royal drama Victoria was filmed in the castle’s gardens and deer park with the dining room and entrance hall used for interior scenes.

With its fortress-like exterior and stately home interior, privately owned Raby Castle is a two-in-one experience. State room splendour contrasts vividly with the simplicity of a servant’s bedroom and the austerity of the servants’ hall. A real ‘upstairs downstairs’ experience.

Gardening groups and green-fingered visitors will enjoy Durham University’s Botanic Garden, where winding footpaths lead through the flora of such far-flung places as Japan, Australia and North America. Head to the glasshouses to discover weird and wonderful plants from a tropical rainforest to desert cacti whilst ‘Art in the Garden’ adds an extra visual aspect.

Did you know…

A white Ischia fig planted at Raby Castle in 1786 still survives and can be seen in the greenhouse adjacent to the walled garden.

To request PDF copies of our Group Friendly itineraries please email tradeinfo@discoverdurham.co.uk

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Tour suggestions…

Half day:
Raby Castle and Gardens

Full day:
Raby Castle and Gardens plus Durham
University’s Botanic Garden

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Hotel suggestions…

Durham University Accommodation
Hardwick Hall Hotel

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Useful information…

Coach travelling time:
Raby Castle to Durham City - 45 minutes

SatNav:
Raby Castle DL2 3AH
Durham University’s
Botanic Garden DH1 3TN
Durham University
Accommodation DH1 3LE
Hardwick Hall Hotel TS21 2EH