Welcome to The Plotters’ Forest, a bespoke children’s play area that’s north of Raby Castle nestled in a magical Christmas tree plantation. Built around existing trees and natural clearings with sustainable materials, the play equipment feels woven into the forest; an extension of the great outdoors.

Tickets include access to the 200-acre picturesque deer park where the red and fallow deer roam amongst the stunning castle backdrop. Enter through the towering gateway and disappear into the dense woodland playground. Explore ground-level forest trails, then climb to high walkways and towers. Become part of a world of magic and mischief: create a cacophony on outdoor musical instruments and match pairs on our giant memory game, or strike a Plotters’ Portrait pose and cause chaos with our spinning signposts.

Visitors young and old will love getting lost amongst exhilarating views, sky-high turrets and treetop tunnels, before spreading out on the stargazing deck and slipping down the slide. Send your fellow plotters coded messages through the Talking Tubes, and spot enemies in the Mischief Mirrors. And for the very smallest rebels, there’s a dedicated toddler area: think mini turrets, climbing equipment, slide and a chalkboard for drawing secret squiggles.

At The Plotters' Forest, we firmly believe that building a relationship with the outdoors inspires children to be resilient, curious and courageous. In an increasingly digital and risk-averse world, The Plotters’ Forest playground is a setting where little ones – and their imaginations – can run wild.

Each season brings new excitement with magnificent February Half Term, Easter, May Half Term, Summer, Halloween and Christmas Trails. The Castle is open from March to October for children to enjoy and learn more about the magnificent history around them.

Opening Hours – Weekends and holiday periods, 10am till 4pm

The Plotters’ Forest & Deer Park Tickets: Weekends and Holiday Periods, prices starting from adult £9; concession £8; 4–15 years – £8.50; under 4s – free; Family (2+3) – £30.00; HH Member – £5.00. Upgrades to the castle are available seasonally during the ticket process or onsite.

Raby Castle, Staindrop, Darlington, County Durham, DL2 3AH - Visit the Raby Castle website