The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens - Image 1

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

Darlington, United Kingdom•4.2(200)•Castle, Country Park, Playground

Explore an immersive outdoor adventure playground nestled in a Christmas Tree Plantation, where children discover nature through interactive games built from sustainable materials.

The Plotters' Forest Adventure Playground at Raby Castle is a unique family destination that combines outdoor play with a genuine connection to nature. Nestled within a magical Christmas Tree Plantation, the playground features equipment crafted from sustainable materials—including larch cladding sourced from the estate's own woodland—seamlessly integrated into the natural forest environment. The design celebrates nature's rich palette while offering children a safe, imaginative space to play and explore. The venue is specifically designed for families with children aged 0-15, offering a magical setting where young visitors can develop resilience, curiosity, and courage through outdoor play. The facility includes comprehensive visitor amenities such as buggy parking, baby changing facilities, accessible toilets, and The Plotters' Pantry café where families can relax with refreshments while overlooking the forest. Visitors can book the Plotters' Forest experience as part of a broader estate visit, which includes access to the 200-acre Deer Park, the stunning Walled Gardens, and seasonal children's trails. Pre-booking online is recommended for the best prices. The venue also welcomes school groups and birthday party bookings, making it an ideal destination for memorable family adventures and educational visits in County Durham.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in or book in advance

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn) – 15 years

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

The Plotters' Pantry

On-site café located next to the toddler area offering coffee, cake, children's lunch boxes, freshly made sandwiches and traybakes

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Google Reviews

4.2(200 reviews)
G
Greer Furniss

Greer Furniss

a month ago

Kids loved it! So nice to be in the middle of nature. Very fun climbing and beautiful views!

J
Jenny Piazza

Jenny Piazza

9 months ago

The Plotters forest is VERY expensive for what it is. Enjoyed visiting the gardens and parkland but I wouldn't say it was good value for money. The cafe in the greenhouse however, was sublime. A wonderful selection of fresh local food in a great space with a cracking view.

A
Alicia Campbell Astbury

Alicia Campbell Astbury

a year ago

My children had lots of fun here! Lovely natural play area where they can get plenty of exercise, be outdoors and in nature. Lovely setting amongst the trees. Age range 2-4 yrs on the mini play area and 4-10/11 yrs for the main area. Toilets immaculately clean, seating for picnics and a snack bar offering icecream, snacks and hot and cold drinks. Seating for parents on a paltform above. I would recommend, we had lots of fun!

C
Claire Clark

Claire Clark

2 years ago

What an absolutely brilliant day we've had. We will definitely be buying a yearly pass. Myself, partner and 3 boys, aged 10, 10 & 11, loved the deer Park, we got to see deer rutting. The boys loved plotters forest and played for 2 hours none stop. We asked them for their rating out of 10, overall they scored 29/30. Today was worth every penny and we can't wait to go back and explore the castle and more of the grounds. Great memories made today!

K
Kay Thompson

Kay Thompson

2 years ago

This place was something else! They do tell you everything the kids can go on adults can. I have added a flattering photo of my 5ft 5 larger self attempting to follow my 12 and 7 year old. It is accessible for adults but a challenge in places. Also there is a fireman's pole to finish off part of the course which my boys delighted in watching me tackle for the first time on 20 years! At the top of the forest is a good hit that serves hot and cold drinks with a range of foods, from toasties, sandwiches, cakes, biscuits. Above the shop is a small seating area with 6 picnic benches slightly larger than your usual benches. There were a few wasps keen to visit us while eating but other than that it was. Nice place to sit. Packed lunches are also fine to bring here too. Accessibility for wheelchairs is actually good although the climbing activities aren't accessible unless a lot of support is given. There are steps to the top as you come in but there is a ramp that weaves throughout the climbing activities that takes you from top to bottom although the picnic area is not accessible there is some seating around the food hut. Throughout the ramp there are multiple "hidden" items for kids to find and tick off which got all our family involved. Car park for Plotters forest is further up from Raby castle, it's all tarmac and signposted well if walking from the castle. Coaches are allowed on site with their own parking and group booking are taken.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

Is The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens free to visit?

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens suitable for?

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is suitable from newborn up to age 15.

Is The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens.

Is there parking at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens?

Yes, The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has on-site parking.

Is there food at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens?

Yes — The Plotters' Pantry is on site at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. On-site café located next to the toddler area offering coffee, cake, children's lunch boxes, freshly made sandwiches…

Is The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens pushchair-friendly?

Yes, The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens?

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens by public transport?

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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