Meet Our Hosts 2026 - Raby Estates

Raby Estates – meet our hosts

We are grateful to Lord and Lady Barnard and the Raby Estate for kindly hosting Future Countryside 2026. Raby Estates operates over 3 major upland and lowland landholdings across Co. Durham and Shropshire. Its interests include a substantial portfolio of let property, sporting, in hand farming and forestry, as well as a growing leisure and tourism operation. Under Lord Barnard’s leadership over the past nine years, the Estate has undergone a period of transformative change and investment, guided by a strategy to build a vibrant, sustainable business that honours its heritage while embracing the future.

Discover how Raby Estates is shaping the countryside: from their regenerative farming and forestry initiatives to innovative land management practices, learn more on their website.

Raby Castle is one of England’s finest medieval castles. Built by the powerful Nevilles in the 14^th century, it has a long history. Home to Cecily Neville, mother of two kings of England, it was also the scene of the plotting of the Rising of the North and a Parliamentary stronghold during the Civil War.  It has been the family home of the Vanes for nearly 400 years. Since inheriting Raby Castle in 2016, Lord and Lady Barnard have embarked on a transformative journey to revitalise the Estate, blending its rich history with modern cultural initiatives. Their ambitious project, "The Rising," encompasses a comprehensive restoration of heritage buildings, the creation of new visitor facilities, and the rejuvenation of the estate's gardens and landscapes.

How to get to Raby Castle

Raby Castle is located in the beautiful County Durham and whether you are coming by train or car, reaching Raby Castle is easy and stress-free, with fast rail links (just over 2 hours from London) and excellent road connections bringing you straight to the heart of the venue.

Raby Castle
Staindrop
Darlington
Co. Durham
DL2 3AH

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Sustainable travel is very important to the Estate, they encourage public transport, car sharing and cycling to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. Electric Car Charging points are available onsite in the car park as well as bike parking.

To find out more go to https://www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle/your-visit/plan-your-day/how-to-find-us/