The Glittering North

Photo courtesy of The Glittering North.

If you’re in the North East this Autumn be sure to join in with a right Raby rumpus going on in the grounds of 14th century Raby Castle near Staindrop in County Durham.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is staging a never seen before spectacle of live music, dance and captivating puppetry, which all comes alive after dark. The Glittering North – an immersive and unforgettable new experience will run on selected dates in October and November.  

Celebrating the region’s Norse and Viking heritage in a raucous adventure like no other, the event brings to life iconic figures from the past with enchanting puppetry and illuminating light art.

From Gullinburstin, a boar with bristles made from gold that light up the sky, to Sleipnir, a giant illuminated horse with eight legs – visitors of all ages can mingle with these fascinating figures before settling down for tales of folklore and myth.

The remodelled 18th century Walled Garden will be home to the ‘trail of the north’ full of illuminated photo opportunities, a glittering immersive space dripping with gold, giant illuminated fish in a new watery world and a spectacular recreation of the northern lights.

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estate said: “The change from summer to autumn marks the start of cosy nights with hands warming round a mug of hot chocolate, fiery clusters of red and orange as the trees change colour and crunchy leaves beneath your feet.

“Our captivating new event provides a festoon lit and atmospheric autumnal celebration, full of feasting, warm blankets, torchlight and fire processions, designed to set imaginations alight in a spectacle never seen before in County Durham.”

Alongside the ‘trail of the north’, the Dutch Barn will be adorned with lights, flags, bunting and barrels. Whooping and whirling folk musicians play fiddles and brass whilst captivating fire performers dazzle the crowds.

The Riding School will also become a transformed space in this mythical new world, surrounded by warm lighting where visitors can hunker down and listen to tales of Norse gods and shapeshifting beasts.

Photo courtesy of The Glittering North.

Visitors can explore this unique experience at their own pace, getting up close to the characters of The Glittering North as they weave through the immersive gardens and towering heritage buildings.

The new Vinery café restaurant will be open throughout the evening to provide delicious food and warm drinks and the beautiful autumn and Christmas range will be available to browse in the new retail space in the Coach House featuring a range of high quality, artisan items.

The event promises to be a carnival of raucous and fun-filled adventure served with copious amounts of hot chocolate and marshmallows, bringing a smile to the faces of young and old alike.

Tickets to step into The Glittering North at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens can now be booked for the following dates: 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th, 30th, 31st October and the 1st, 2nd, 3rd November with tickets available from 4pm - 8pm.

Tickets cost £20 for adults and £13 for children.

For further information and to book tickets, please visit: www.raby.co.uk/events/the-glittering-north/