By james art It seemed a bit of a trek to County Durham to see an event called the Northern Lights.
But it was worth the trip, as you will soon find out.
Raby Castle, just north of Barnard Castle, hosts the colorful event and has extensive grounds with a deer park, gardens and hosts a number of other events.
He also owns the High Force Hotel and the nearby spectacular waterfall of that name.
And they kindly invited me to come and enjoy it all!
After only an hour’s drive I was at the castle, which is set in the most magnificent grounds and beautiful scenery.
RECOMMENDED READING:
It was late autumn, so perhaps the labyrinthine, grassy gardens weren’t at their best, but the castle, lake and deer park were magnificent in the October sunshine.
It just felt so civilized and relaxing as I walked around the lake watching the swans and other birds, with the deer in the distance.
There are marked paths of varying lengths and I soon reached the medieval castle. There was certainly a lot to see, with a banquet hall, bedroom, kitchen, chapel and many other rooms filled with historical artefacts.
Many volunteers were on hand to answer any questions and give you details without prompting. They knew their business.
I then headed to the excellent Vinery Cafe, which was doing extremely well, but plenty of staff and perhaps volunteers were on hand for quick service. I was tempted by the homemade cabbage and potato pie (£14) and it was really tasty.
I then drove about 30 minutes to the High Force Hotel, which has been lovingly restored with original features. It is only a few minutes walk from the most magnificent waterfall and combined with its excellent restaurant, it is a destination in itself.
My room had a king size bed and was gorgeous, luxurious and extremely comfortable. Now I had planned an afternoon walk to the waterfall but when it started to drizzle I noticed the rather large bath and enjoyed my first bath in years!
The rain shower soon stopped and I read for a while and the Wi-Fi worked easily and beautifully. There is also a work desk if you need it.
I went downstairs past the bar where the fireplaces were burning and settled into a separate restaurant whose menu included plenty of local dishes.
First I ordered a bottle of Malbec (£27.50) and then a starter of smoked salmon, toasted sourdough and cream cheese (£9).
There were two very generous slices of bread, with the salmon complementing the cream cheese well. The salad was also a treat and I thought ’10/10′.
I noticed that the background music was nice, soft and relaxing classic pop music suitable for all ages.
Next comes the slow-cooked pork belly main, with fresh potatoes, pea and bacon fricassee, applesauce and mushroom jus (£21.50). They were also served with spring vegetables (£4.50).
The combination of flavors was a delight, the potatoes were lovely and soft. But unfortunately I couldn’t eat it all. Maybe I shouldn’t have enjoyed this Cottage Pie for lunch.
I also wanted to save room for dessert, settling for a chocolate mousse (£8). It was light and fluffy, with raspberries and an edible flower, and it was the perfect way to finish.
I then took what was left of my wine to sit by one of the two fires, making for the most relaxing way to end the day. It didn’t take long for me to fall asleep as I climbed into bed soon after.
After a great night’s sleep, a powerful shower, dried off by the fluffiest white towels, it was all for the most generous and filling breakfast (£15.95). I started with natural yogurt with granola, followed by the most delicious full English, with toast and marmalade, which set me up for the day. There were many other options.
I needed a break after all that good food and I had no desire to leave as I loved the luxury and comfort. But I did and then enjoyed the short walk to see the most magnificent waterfall.
The overnight rain caused a loud crash as you listened to the roar of the Tees. I didn’t see the badgers, I was told I live there, but it was worth the walk.
Soon I was in the car, heading towards Barnard Castle, passing through more beautiful scenery. I walked around the thriving city center with its many independent shops. I enjoyed a half cider in the quaint Crobar before stopping for coffee in Staindrop and heading back to Raby Castle.
I was keen to see the deer again so I took a longer walk and there were dozens of them including a few white ones. I have never seen a white deer before and seeing the deer was a great experience. You can get pretty close to them.
Then it was time for the Shining North, where families enjoyed spectacular puppetry, firecrackers, Nordic storytelling and a rather excellent orchestra provided plenty of merriment.
There were colorful displays and puppets in the gardens which probably look a lot better at night. However, they were lovely to look at even in the fading sun.
However, I decided to leave before dark, considering the long journey ahead.
But if you can’t make it to Raby for the Shining North, which runs until November 3, don’t forget that these are other attractions that I really enjoyed. Other events include deer park safaris, various trails and stargazing evenings at the High Force Hotel and Waterfall to name a few.
And if you like what you see and experience, Raby membership (£40 adults, £37 concessions) is a great deal, especially if you live nearby. Membership includes free access to the gardens and deer park and a range of other benefits.
Well, it was a great weekend, I saw and enjoyed many wonderful things, with fine food and great comfort. Well recommended and worth the drive!
To find out more: www.raby.co.uk