Raby Castle Is Decorated For Christmas For The First Time In 50 Years – And It’s A Spectacular Success
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2 hours ago
A unity of vintage charm, breathtaking opulence and heritage, this is a must-see for all ages
The recently revealed Raby Castle Christmas decorations more than match the most noted and annually awaited grand displays across the UK capital. Authentic decorations and presents from the past are on display at the Darlington heritage site, as are natural yet richly adorned and ornate trees that stretch from floor to exceptionally high ceiling with an impressive impact.
On display for the first time in 50 years, it is a sumptuous celebration which strives to be accessible to all – during what are presently, for some, austere times. There is a receptivity and sense of sharing and caring, true to the spirit of Christmas, and a magnetic cosiness which is sprinkled with magic throughout. Wendyrosie Scott gets a sneak peek.
Preview: Raby Castle Christmas Decorations 2025
Raby Castle at Christmas sees the medieval fortress open its doors during the festive period for the first time in five decades. Designed by custodian and creative director Lady Barnard, it takes visitors back to the Edwardian period and its then-inhabitants: the Vane family (who were previously at the helm of the castle for 400 years).
An introductory animated film sets the scene, based on the format of the famous poem ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and beginning in the Housekeeper’s Sitting Room. Eight rooms on the ground floor chronicle Christmas day at the castle, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking to elegant dining and Christmas games come evening, and featuring a table setting ready for a spectacular festive meal. Each room is awe-inspiring and overflows with wit and wonder.
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‘I have been discovering even more about Raby’s past and delving into cupboards to find bits and pieces which haven’t been seen in years,’ Lady Barnard says on curating the production. ‘Our family would have made many of the decorations themselves and foraged in the grounds for foliage, and it’s been a pleasure emulating this beautiful and sustainable way of decorating.’
The first tree we see is deceptively simple, decorated with sliced dried fruit and exuding nostalgia. The rooms then flow into the full-on fantastical. As Lady Barnard puts it, ‘Those who know Raby appreciate that working at such a scale can be daunting. But the team and I have given it careful thought over the year and feel we have really complemented the essence of Raby. I’m also keen for it to have a personal touch for our visitors throughout – that’s why my team and I dressed the rooms ourselves.’
Given not all of us are castle custodians, this is a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in such spectacular pomp, and even the bah humbug brigade would be hard pressed to resist Raby’s charms. Such festivities bring out the child in us all – and this, of course, is a fairy tale brought to life in a real castle. Conserving such a heritage building, which is set in a region known for its stunning countryside and picturesque villages, makes it all the more appealing.
It is best to spend a day away at Raby and its walled gardens and grounds, where the estate’s deer make a fitting picture postcard at this time of year. Extend your visit with Afternoon Tea at The Vinery, while the Coach House lifestyle shop is a standalone and unmissable series of recently renovated stone rooms, which are exceptionally well presented. Plus, with purchases of the same high standard, there is something for everyone – not to mention plenty to tempt and brands chosen because of their unique products, which are talking points in and of themselves. Then there’s the conservatory with its picturesque views that form part of the Vinery restaurant. There’s wholesome and tasty local produce served by staff whose warm welcome typifies the cold North.
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‘We’ve researched the Raby archives in detail, and have included the Christmas cards and gifts the family gave each other,’ the castle’s curator, Julie Biddlecombe-Brown, says. ‘We even have gift boxes with labels detailing who the present was from and the year, thus providing a truthful snapshot of the family’s festive experiences.’
This is heritage with a universal appeal, and one eye-catching present is a pair of Moroccan slippers dated 1900 yet in perfect condition – which I warned the staff could easily go missing. The dedication evident in the work and resultant joy on display can also be found in its festive atmosphere, all of which surely makes for a great success.
How To Visit
Raby Castle at Christmas runs until 4 January 2026 (excluding 25–28 December 2025), open 11am to 4pm.
A candlelit experience will also take place on Saturday 13 and 20 December where visitors can experience the elegantly decorated castle rooms in a different and magical light, followed by late-night shopping for festive gifts at the Coach House.
Tickets are £22 for adults, £7 for children (up to 15 years) and under fours go free. This includes access to the Walled Gardens and Deer Park.
Where:
For tickets to Raby Castle at Christmas, visit raby.co.uk
