Festive treat in store for castle visitors

VISITORS to a beauty spot castle are to have a chance to see it in its Christmas glory for the first time in half a century.

- By Bill Edgar

Raby Castle in County Durham, which is to host Santa visits in Baron's Hall from November, has now announced a new festive treat.

For the first time in five decades it will be opening its doors during the festive period to show its Christmas decorations.

And among the attractions will be never-before-seen items from its collections.

Lady Barnard, custodian and creative director at the castle, which is set in acres of deer park at Staindrop near Darlington, has designed the new experience, which is to feature eight decorated rooms to explore.

During the new Raby Castle at Christmas event, visitors will see how the castle would have looked during festive seasons in the past and how its resident Vane family celebrated Christmas day, from traditional stockings to open in the morning to enjoying dinner at a beautifully-set table and games in the evening.