Raby Castle, Park and Garden’s popular Spring Garden Fair returns this May following a hugely successful debut that drew thousands of visitors to the historic County Durham estate last year.
Set against the backdrop of its restored 18th century Walled Gardens and medieval castle, the three-day celebration promises expert gardening talks, floral installations, family activities and seasonal food across the second May bank holiday weekend.
Quickly becoming a major highlight in the lifestyle destination’s calendar, the event will be taking place during the second May bank holiday this year, from Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May 2026.
Inside Raby’s 18th Century Walled Gardens
Taking centre stage during the three-day event will be Raby’s team of expert gardeners.
They will be leading tours and talks and sharing their advice alongside extra insight about the fascinating transformation of Raby’s 18th Century Walled Gardens, which were remodelled by world renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei and Lady Barnard.
Dickon Harding, Gardens and Landscape Manager at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens said:
“Our Spring Garden Fair is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the reawakening of our gardens after their winter slumber, as spring breathes new life into the landscape. From our stunning Amelanchier and Cherry blossoms to the vibrant perennials, the ever-changing beauty of the Walled Gardens continues to shine.”
Guest Speakers And Floral Demonstrations
Additional talks and horticultural and floristry demonstrations will be hosted by prominent figures in the industry including Arthur Parkinson, a gardener, award-winning broadcaster and best-selling author; Anna Potter from Swallows and Damsons, a renowned florist creating beautiful installations across the country; Deborah Simpson Boston, a local floral designer and owner of Periwinkle Barn; and Alistair Baldwin, North Yorkshire based landscape architect and garden designer who redesigned the extensive public areas within the castle grounds.
Acclaimed artist Sarah Nelson will also be hosting a live drawing class in the Walled Gardens, where she’ll share her tips to explore expressive artwork while working directly from the surroundings.
Shopping, Plants And Garden Inspiration
The restored Riding School will host curated garden and lifestyle stalls, while the Coach House retail space and outdoor Coach Yard offer further inspiration for outdoor living.
Additional plant stalls will also be available to peruse in the Walled Gardens, before heading to the conservatory and exploring the Garden Trading collection, featuring stylish indoor and outdoor furniture, pots, homeware accessories and tableware.
Family Activities And Deer Park Experiences
For families, there are hands-on and creative activities including:
Flower crown makingSeed planting workshopsTractor rides through the scenic Deer ParkThe woodland adventure playground, The Plotters’ Forest
There’s also live entertainment in the East Garden’s amphitheatre to enjoy during a full day out at Raby and the medieval castle to explore, including its Castle in Bloom installation, designed by Swallows and Damsons.
Displays include suspended dried deschampsia grasses sourced from the estate’s own gardens and dramatic multi-coloured dried flower arrangements throughout historic interiors.
Food And Dining Across The Estate
Spring is alive throughout Raby’s eateries, with freshly prepared sandwiches, sweet treats, hot drinks and light lunch options at The Vinery; speciality teas and coffees, snacks and classic ice creams at the Garage Cafe; homemade traybakes, refreshing drinks and indulgent ice creams at the Plotters’ Pantry; and an impressive Estate barbecue in the Dutch Barn, featuring produce from the Raby Estate.
RHS Partner Garden of the Year Competition 2026
Raby’s Walled Gardens have also been entered into the RHS Partner Garden of the Year Competition 2026, which celebrates the gardens that bring nature to life in exciting and imaginative ways. Voting is now open until Monday 21st September, with one winner selected for the North East region before an overall winner is crowned.
A Spring Garden Fair ticket with Castle, Park and Gardens entry is available. This is £23 for adults, £12 for children (ages 4 to 15 years) or £66 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Raby is also providing an exclusive early bird 10% discount with code SPRING10.
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