See Durham > Attractions > Raby Castle
Raby Castle near Staindrop, County Durham is one of the largest inhabited castles in England. It has opulent eighteenth and nineteenth century interiors inside a largely unchanged late medieval shell. It is a Grade I listed building.
Raby once belonged to the Neville family, who became one of the most powerful in England. Cecily Neville, who was the mother of the Kings Edward IV of England and Richard III of England was born here. The Nevilles lost the castle (and many more of their possessions) after they led the failed Rising of the North in favour of Mary, Queen of Scots in 1569.
Sir Henry Vane the Elder purchased Raby ( and the neighbouring Barnard Castle ) from the Crown in 1626 and his descendants still own it. From 1833 to 1891 they were the Dukes of Cleveland, and they retain the title of Lord Barnard. High Force waterfall is on the Raby Estates.
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The Castle is open to the public and contains many works of art, including the original 1844 version of Hiram Powers’ The Greek Slave.
Now one of the UK’s most impressive Castle’s for visitors, wonder at its towers, turrets, embattled walls, interiors and artworks from the Medieval, Regency and Victorian periods.
See the herds of deer roaming the surrounding parkland, enjoy the ornamental gardens, the horse-drawn carriages, relax in the tearooms and be tempted by traditional and unusual gifts & souvenirs in the gift shop.
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Its a wonderful day out for all the family.
Opening Times:
Easter: Saturday 11th April to Monday 13th April
May, June and September: Sunday to Wednesday
(Guided tours only operate Monday to Wednesday every 30 minutes)
July and August: Daily except Saturdays
Bank Holiday Weekends also open Saturdays
Park and Gardens: 11.00 to 17.30
Castle: 13.00 to 17.00