- Play Hard
- 6th May 2026
- 0
- 0 minute
Raby Castle is in bloom with a beautiful new floral installation
- Advertisement Feature
One of the North East’s most impressive lifestyle destinations is about to get even more beautiful.
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is launching Castle in Bloom, a breathtaking floral installation running from Saturday 2nd May right through to the end of August.
Several areas of the County Durham castle will be transformed with show-stopping arrangements inspired by nature, including contemporary designs by renowned florist Anna Potter from Sheffield-based Swallows and Damsons. In the Entrance Hall, you’ll find an incredible suspended orb made from dried deschampsia grasses cut from Raby’s own Walled Gardens, with roots, mosses and wild wispy grasses spilling out at floor level and winding up the stairs.
Head upstairs to the Baron’s Hall and you’ll discover a giant suspended sun portal set against the backdrop of three grand windows. Approximately five feet in diameter, it features thousands of strings of dried flowers swirling around a central point. The two installations have been designed to mirror the contrast between dark and light, with the orb representing the moon and the portal signifying the sun.
Further rooms will be transformed by Yorkshire-based florists Opulence and the Beetle, whose exuberant creations take inspiration from the Old Masters paintings displayed in the castle and exquisite floral prints discovered in a 1730s book in the historic library. Raby’s own gardening team will also be adding floral displays throughout the castle, including the medieval kitchen.
The wider experience at Raby, including its cafe and destination retail store, will celebrate the floral theme alongside an exhibition exploring the estate’s historic passion for plants, featuring important figures such as celebrated 18th century botanist Lady Anne Monson, who grew up at Raby when the Walled Garden was being developed.
Entry to Castle in Bloom is included in all Castle, Park and Gardens tickets, priced at £23 for adults, £12 for children (ages 4 to 15) and £66 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Raby’s family explorer ticket, which provides access to everything at the destination, is £60 for two adults and two children when booked online in advance.
EVENTS TO ENJOY CASTLE IN BLOOM AT RABY THIS SUMMER
In Bloom Afternoon Tea
Daily from 2pm throughout the season
Treat yourself to a floral twist on the classic afternoon tea at The Vinery. A beautifully presented three-tiered spread of sandwiches, scones and cakes, all served up with panoramic views of the castle. One for a proper catch-up or a well-deserved treat.
Periwinkle Barn pop-up flower shop
Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 4pm, based in the Potting Sheds
County Durham-based floral designer Deborah brings her passion for British flowers and sustainable floristry to Raby with a gorgeous selection of seasonal bouquets, posie bags and more. If you love flowers, you’ll want to have a browse.
Garden Trading in the Conservatory
Daily, 11am – 3pm, based in The Conservatory
Head to the Garden Trading showroom in the stunning Conservatory within the 18th-century Walled Gardens, where indoor and outdoor furniture, pots, homeware and tableware — including the latest spring/summer 2026 pieces inspired by modern country living – will be beautifully showcased with views of the castle. Plus, enjoy 20% off Garden Trading furniture with a complimentary Park & Gardens ticket.
Spring Garden Fair
Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May
Raby’s popular garden fair returns for the Bank Holiday weekend. Browse a brilliant selection of plant traders, pick up flowers, shrubs and garden treasures for your own space, and enjoy expert talks and demonstrations from garden specialists on hand to answer your burning questions and share insights into the transformation of Raby’s historic Walled Gardens.
Peony Bowl Floral Workshop
Friday 13 June
A relaxed, hands-on floral class led by Periwinkle Barn where you’ll learn to create a lush peony bowl arrangement using seasonal blooms and foliage. Perfect for beginners and flower lovers alike, and you’ll head home with a stunning arrangement to enjoy.
Botanical Illustration Workshop with Jo Pickering
Saturday 4 July
Immerse yourself in the art of botanical painting against the backdrop of Raby’s blooming gardens, exploring composition, detail and the use of various materials. All levels welcome, with a light lunch included. Bring your own materials or purchase a ticket that includes supplies provided by Jo on the day.
EXPLORE THE FULL WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, Staindrop, County Durham, DL2 3AH
Subscribe
Subscribe now to receive our twice-weekly emails and exclusive offers for High Life North readers.