Raby Castle at Christmas Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Jo Hardy
Unpacking the Christmas decorations can bring back lots memories, at Raby Castle the memories go back to Edwardian times and this year eight ground floor rooms in the castle have been beautifully decorated to replicate a Christmas back in time.
The tour starts in the housekeeper’s sitting room with a lovely short film, based on ‘‘Twas The Night Before Christmas” but with a Raby twist, the film sets the scene for what comes next, the first couple of rooms show where the staff do all the Christmas preparation work, they have decorated it for Christmas with a simple tree and paper chains, then we go into the grand family rooms, full of beautiful furniture and details, there’s so much to look at.
In each room it feels like the family has just left for a moment and would be back any time, the gifts had just been opened, some were still sitting on the wrapping paper, drinks waiting to be finished off, Christmas nibbles ready to be enjoyed.
The tour of the family rooms starts with gift opening and journeys through the day to finish in the grand dining room and the long table set for a Christmas feast.
The exit is through the grand hall where there’s a huge fireplace, Christmas trees and two carriages from the estate and brings a new meaning to the phrase “Deck the Halls”.
The Christmas trees are the star of the show, tall, beautifully decorated and completely covered with tiny lights, the way they illuminated each room was magical, I counted eighteen but may of missed some.
Anyone who has struggled to get a balanced spread of lights and decorations on their tree will appreciate the work and skills involved in these trees, they would make a perfect back drop for some family Christmas photos who’d know it wasn’t your tree?.
Custodian and creative director Lady Barnard and curator Julie Biddlecombe-Brown have scoured all the castle’s cupboards and cellars to find some never before seen items and researched the archives and studied old photos to make all the rooms truly authentic with many personal touches.
I could see and feel how this property has been loved by the family, the maintenance of the interior and exterior are exceptional and it is such a privilege to see a snap shot of their past family Christmas, the heart of Christmas starts at home.
Open on selected dates between 22nd Nov and 4th Jan
times 11am – 4pm
tickets adults £22, children £7, family 2 adults and 2 children £55 all tickets include entrance to the deer park and the walled garden and can be purchased from the link.
http://www.raby.co.uk/events/raby-castle-at-christmas/
A festive afternoon tea is available in The Vinery from 2pm to 3pm priced at £29.50 and would be a lovely complement to your visit.
Raby Castle is located on the A688 1 mile north of Staindrop village there is plenty of parking and they have 12ev charging points on site.
Rating: 4/5