In this job you get quite a few invitations. It seemed a bit of a trail up to County Durham to see an event called the Glittering North. But it was so worth the ride as you will soon discover.
Raby Castle, just north of Barnard Castle, hosts the colourful event and has extensive grounds, with deer park, gardens and it organises a range of other events. It also owns the High Force Hotel and the nearby spectacular waterfall of that name. And they kindly invited me to come up and enjoy it all! After barely an hour’s drive, I was at the castle, which is set in the most magnificent grounds and beautiful countryside.
RECOMMENDED READING: REVIEW: Elmbank York, Tapestry Collection by Hilton REVIEW: The Beverley Arms Hotel at Beverley, East Yorkshire It was late autumn so maybe the gardens with a maze and many grasses weren’t at their best, but the castle, the lake and the deer park were glorious in the October sunshine. It just felt so civilised and relaxing as I walked around the lake, looking at the swans and other birds, with the deer in the distance. There are marked paths of varying lengths, and I soon came to the medieval castle.
There was certainly plenty to see, with a banqueting suite, bedroom, kitchen, chapel, and plenty of other rooms packed with historical artefacts. Plenty of volunteers were on hand to answer any questions and tell you details unprompted. They knew their stuff.
I then headed over to the excellent Vinery café, which was doing a roaring trade, but pl.