A NEW children’s adventure playground is expected to open at Raby Castle in time for Easter.
Work began on the bespoke play area late last year and forms part of a wider development programme aimed at making the castle a prime visitor attraction.
It is to feature three-storey play towers, high-level walkways, climbing walls and several ground-level play trails and slides.
It is to include a purpose-built area for toddlers, with mini-turrets and lookout decks – located next to a new split-level cafe.
The wider scheme at Raby Castle, known as The Rising, will include the significant restoration and renovation of several historical buildings on the estate, the creation of a new cafe and events space as well as a visitor hub and landscaped areas. Work on the two-year construction programme started with the new 300-space car park to service the new attractions.
The Rising’s project director, Claire Jones, said: “This carefully considered new addition to Raby Castle has been inspired by the historical architectural elements in the castle such as The Neville Gateway, but also the many stories associated with the estate, particularly the Rising of The North.”
Raby Estate owner Lord Barnard added: “We have now entered the construction phase of this ambitious project, which will deliver wonderful spaces for families to enjoy and to further establish Raby Castle as a must-see visitor destination. This new playground will provide a truly magical space for children and families to enjoy.
“We have spent the last four years planning the development, which promises to put Raby Castle on the map for visitors to the area, as well as providing a beautiful place for the local community to enjoy, all year round.”
