Ahead of its opening this weekend, first look images of the new Christmas installation at Raby Castle have been revealed.
Raby Castle at Christmas, which will see the medieval fortress open its doors during the festive period for the first time in five decades to show the castle decorated for Christmas, has been designed by custodian and creative director, Lady Barnard and takes visitors back to the Edwardian period, as they discover how the Vane family enjoyed Christmas at Raby at the start of the 20th century.
Featuring eight ground floor rooms which have been beautifully decorated for the celebrations, the experience tells the story of Christmas Day at Raby Castle and takes visitors on a remarkable journey through the family’s festivities.
Lady Barnard said: “After months of planning and researching, and a wonderful couple of weeks dressing the rooms and adding our personal touches throughout, I’m proud to be opening Raby Castle at Christmas.
“Every corner has a sprinkling of Christmas magic, with stunning decorations and twinkling lights and that indescribable excitement that Christmas Day brings, as well as a snapshot into Raby’s past and a festive atmosphere that I hope will create lasting memories during people’s celebrations this year.”
Beginning with a special film to set the scene, the seasonal installation reveals an Edwardian Christmas at Raby Castle, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking in front of a cosy fire to an evening of elegant dining and Christmas games.
The new experience also features elegantly decorated Christmas trees and beautiful floristry throughout, alongside items from the castle archives which previously haven’t been seen before and have been selected to bring to life a historic Christmas Day at Raby.
Lady Barnard added: “Learning more about how the family celebrated Christmas over 100 years ago has been a fascinating experience, and there are some lovely similarities to our current family traditions too.”
Visitors can round off their day at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens with a festive afternoon tea at The Vinery, whilst soaking up the panoramic views of the medieval castle. Featuring three tiers of seasonal delights, including a selection of freshly made sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam and an assortment of miniature cakes and sweet treats, a glass of fizz can also be added for an extra treat.
Raby Castle at Christmas is a self-led tour and is available from Saturday 22nd November to Sunday 4th January (excluding 25th to 28th December) between 11am and 4pm.
A candlelit experience will also take place on Saturday 13th and 20th 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 Raby’s retail space, the Coach House.
Tickets to Raby Castle at Christmas are £22 for adults, £7 for children (up to 15 years) and a family ticket for two adults and two children is £55. Under fours go free. These tickets include entry to Raby Castle at Christmas and access to the Walled Gardens and Deer Park.
For tickets to Raby Castle at Christmas, visit: www.raby.co.uk/events/raby-castle-at-christmas/.
To find out more about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens and all that is on offer for Christmas, and to book tickets, visit: www.raby.co.uk/christmas/