Raby Castle Celebrates Valentine’s Weekend with Family Friendly Experiences and Romantic Activities

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is preparing to welcome visitors for a special Valentine’s weekend, combining romantic experiences for couples with engaging activities and attractions for families with children. Set in picturesque parkland near Staindrop in County Durham, the historic estate offers a mix of heritage, nature, food and creative workshops that make it an appealing destination for all ages.

A Historic Castle with Family Appeal

Raby Castle is one of the most impressive intact castles in England. Built by the powerful Neville family in the 14th century, it has been home to the Vane family for nearly 400 years and is now the residence of Lord and Lady Barnard. The castle has a rich and dramatic past, once home to Cecily Neville, mother of two English kings, and later the setting for the plotting of the Rising of the North as well as a Parliamentary stronghold during the Civil War.

In recent years, Raby has undergone a major three-year development programme to create a new lifestyle destination for visitors. Historic buildings have been restored and opened to the public for the first time, while the 18th century Walled Garden has been remodelled by garden designer Luciano Giubbilei in collaboration with Lady Barnard. Families can also explore the Deer Park, where red and fallow deer roam freely, and enjoy The Plotters’ Forest Adventure Playground, making it an engaging day out for children.

Valentine’s Floral Workshop for Creative Families

On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February, Raby will host a Valentine’s dried flower wreath workshop in the Yurt, led by local floral designer Deborah Simpson Boston of Periwinkle Barn. With more than ten years of experience in event floristry, Deborah will demonstrate how to create an everlasting wreath using a vine base and sustainably sourced flowers, including British spring blooms.

The workshop is suitable for beginners and provides a relaxed, hands-on activity that parents, older children and creative families can enjoy together. Participants will learn sustainable floristry techniques and take home their finished wreath as a lasting keepsake or gift.

Seasonal Flowers and Valentine’s Bouquets

A pop-up Periwinkle Barn flower shop will operate from a horsebox outside The Coach House from Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 February. Visitors can browse seasonal bouquets to take home, while those planning ahead can pre-order bouquets for collection on Valentine’s Day. Delivery can also be arranged, offering a convenient option for busy families and couples.

Indulgent Afternoon Tea with Views of the Castle

For a Valentine’s treat, The Vinery will host a special afternoon tea on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 February between 2pm and 4pm. Guests can enjoy a three-tier selection of sweet treats, sandwiches and scones served with freshly brewed tea, with the option to add a glass of fizz.

The Vinery Café is a modern recreation of a historic glass house and seats more than 200 people, offering panoramic views of the castle and grounds. The menu features food inspired by and sourced from the Raby Estate, making it a popular stop for families, couples and groups.

More to Explore for Families and Day Trippers

Beyond the Valentine’s activities, Raby offers a wide range of experiences for families. Visitors can explore the medieval castle, stroll through the peaceful Walled Gardens, spot deer in the parkland and browse The Coach House, which houses a stylish retail space and a free exhibition with an audio-visual table showcasing the Upper Teesdale Estate.

The estate has been designed to offer something for everyone, from history lovers and gardeners to families with young children who can enjoy outdoor play areas and open spaces.

High Force Waterfall and Hotel for a Family Break

Just 30 minutes’ drive from Raby Castle, the Raby Estate also includes High Force Waterfall and High Force Hotel in the North Pennines National Landscape and European Geopark. High Force is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the UK, with a 21 metre cascade into ancient rocks more than 300 million years old. Families can follow the circular woodland trail to the base of the falls for an easy and scenic walk.

Nearby, High Force Hotel offers ten individually styled en suite rooms and is popular for family stays, country walks and hearty meals. It provides a peaceful rural retreat for those looking to extend their visit to the area.

Booking Information

The Periwinkle Barn Valentine’s wreath workshop will take place at 11am on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February and costs £60 per person, with all materials included. The Glasshouse afternoon tea in The Vinery must be pre-booked and is £29.50 per person, with an afternoon tea with fizz available for £37.50 per person. A Glasshouse Afternoon Tea for two is £59.00. Entry to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is £23 for adults.

Further information and tickets can be found at www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/whats-on/.