Raby Estate launches unique festive experiences for businesses
1st October 2025
Raby Estate has created a festive package for corporate groups at both of its iconic County Durham locations, including the new Raby Castle at Christmas event and a stargazing supper experience.
Located within Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, teams can visit the ground floor of the 14th century castle which will be open to the public in the build up to Christmas for the first time in fifty years.
The new seasonal offering, designed by custodian and creative director, Lady Barnard, will allow visitors to step back in time to experience a traditional family Christmas at Raby Castle as it takes them through eight beautifully decorated rooms.
The event, which is full of photo opportunities, tells the story of Christmas Day, from the early morning thrill of opening a Christmas stocking to an evening of elegant dining and Christmas games, featuring an impressive table setting ready for a spectacular festive meal.
The corporate package also includes a festive afternoon tea featuring three tiers of seasonal delights. The post-tour treat will be hosted within the spacious The Vinery Café which boasts panoramic views of Raby Castle and will be beautifully decorated for Christmas with festive greenery and twinkling lights.
Sophie Brown, Sales and Events Manager at Raby Estates said: “We understand that not all corporate groups are after the traditional Christmas meal and party and are on the lookout for something a little more unique and inclusive.
“With festive and breathtaking decorations, an array of photo opportunities and a heartwarming story that can be enjoyed at your own pace, our personal retelling of how Raby’s ancestors would have celebrated Christmas is a wonderful experience to enjoy with colleagues and the perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit.”
For a memorable after-dark event under the night sky, High Force Hotel and Waterfall’s popular Stargazing Suppers will also be on offer for corporate groups, combining seasonal indulgence with natural beauty.
The evening begins with a three-course meal at the hotel, featuring locally-inspired dishes with a festive twist. A guided star-lit walk to High Force Waterfall follows, offering a unique chance to witness one of the north’s highest waterfalls which will be dramatically illuminated during the event.
With the guidance of an expert astronomer who is on hand to help identify constellations, planets and the Milky Way galaxy, guests can look skywards and see some of the UK’s darkest skies.
Groups are welcome to retreat to High Force Hotel for a post-stargazing hot chocolate or mulled wine in front of a roaring fire. For those wanting to hunker down in the North Pennines National Landscape, rooms are also available to book for an overnight stay.
Sophie added: “High Force is one of the UK’s most magnificent waterfalls and is an incredible spectacle in every season, but there’s something special about wrapping up warm and witnessing its majestic force in the winter months. Coupled with a festive meal beforehand, this offering is a fantastic alternative to the usual Christmas activities.”
The Raby Castle at Christmas experience followed by a festive afternoon tea will be available from Saturday 22 November and is £45 per person, based on bookings of five or more people.
The Festive Stargazing Supper at High Force Hotel and Waterfall is available on 12, 13, 19 and 20 December and is £80 per person for bookings of five or more people. An overnight stay at High Force Hotel will be an additional cost.
To find out more about Raby Estate’s corporate Christmas packages and to book, visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/corporate-and-business-events/ or email admin@raby.co.uk