The Raby at Christmas experience runs from November 22 until January 4. Credit Chris Parkinson (Image: Chris Parkinson)

I thought I had an idea of what to expect from a Raby Castle at Christmas experience. I'd enjoyed a visit last year to see its grand Entrance Hall decked out in festive finery and when there came news this autumn that it would be opening up its state rooms to visitors this year in the run-up to Christmas to show off a seasonal makeover, I looked forward to seeing more beautiful displays of trees and decorations in parts of the castle normally hidden from view.

But I could never have imagined anything like this. When I arrive for a preview visit at Raby, which is set in acres of deer park and award-winning gardens at Staindrop near Darlington , it is a bitter

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