Explore Raby Castle’s deer park on the back of a trailer

County Durham’s Raby Estates, which includes Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, has added a new deer park safari to its visitor experiences, offering a further opportunity for groups.

The safari is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the north east setting and give an insight into the deer herd.

Visitors to the 14th century Raby Castle, which has been home to deer for centuries, can head out with expert Raby rangers to see the estate’s deer in their natural habitat. Groups will be taken out on a trailer from the castle gate. Alternatively, you can go out on foot.

The deer safari goes out into Raby’s deer park to watch herds of red and fallow deer in their natural habitat, whilst learning about their behaviour, diet and the conservation efforts in place to protect them. The rangers will also be on hand to help find the best photography spots.

The new deer park safari joins the estate’s group bookings options, which provides opportunities to get immersed in centuries of history, explore historic architecture, and embrace the natural beauty of the grounds.

Groups can take part in self-guided tours of the castle, park and gardens or allow a guide to help them discover the history of the castle and those who lived there, before exploring the remodelled walled gardens and the picturesque parklands.

Specialist tours are available, including behind-the-scenes visits and archive discoveries, providing a deeper dive into the history of the estate. 

For those looking for a slower pace, you can add an afternoon tea to a tour, which is served in the vinery, or visit High Force Waterfall, located around 30-minutes from the estate, which is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the UK.