Description:C18 walled gardens set within the grounds of Raby Castle. Designers such as Thomas White and James Paine have worked to establish the gardens, which now extend to 5 acres, displaying herbaceous borders, old yew hedges, formal rose gardens and informal heather and conifer gardens

Disability information:Assistance will be needed for wheelchairs

Further details:The 18th century Walled Gardens are set within the grounds of Raby Castle. The formal garden, now extending to approximately five acres, displays herbaceous borders, old yew hedges, formal lawns, rose gardens and informal heather and conifer gardens. It was designed by Thomas Wright (the Wizard of Durham) for the 2nd Earl of Darlington and has a wide array of trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Thomas White advised on the landscaping in the Park along with Joseph Spence & James Paine. Walls of locally hand-made brick were constructed with flues which, when heated, enabled sub-tropical fruits to be grown on the South Terrace. Of these only the White Ischia Fig, brought to Raby from Italy in 1786 by William Harry, 3rd Earl of Darlington, still survives in its specially built house and it fruits bi-annually. The Gardens have been considerably altered during this century but many of the original 18th century features remain. In particular, the ornamental pond and the two fine 200 year-old yew hedges that dominate the central garden.Raby Castle is open on the same days as the walled gardens. The dramatic 14th century castle, built by the mighty Nevilles has been home to Lord Barnard's family since 1626. The rooms display fine furniture, impressive artworks and elaborate architecture. Visitors can also enjoy the deer park, carriage collection, woodland adventure playground, picnic area and gift shop. Part of the stables has been converted to a tearoom, where former stalls have been incorporated to create an atmospheric setting.Raby Castle and the gardens are open to enjoy throughout the summer months