Over this spring and summer, we’re helping the senior team at Raby Estates, and Lord and Lady Barnard define what sort of a visitor attraction they want Raby Castle & Parkland to be.
Raby Castle, built by the Nevills in the 14th century, is one of the finest and best-preserved medieval castles in North East England and has changed ownership just once, in 1626, when it became home to Lord Barnard. The Castle is set in 200 acres of parkland in the heart of the Durham Dales.
Lord and Lady Barnard want to transform the visitor experience into something very special that delivers a sustainable business and a vibrant visitor attraction. Like all estates, the view is a long one, we are thinking 20 years ahead. And, like all estates in family ownership, it is not only a matter of bricks and mortar. You inherit and reshape a set of values and have a responsibility of care. Planning for the next generation is all important.
The process is more than what to do with the undeveloped outbuildings or the Castle experience, the garden or the parkland – though there are good ideas aplenty – it is about how to articulate the values of the family and the ethos of the Estate through the visitor experience. We’re working with partners in creative sessions and through consultation to create a vision that Raby can use to shape the visitor experience for years to come.
