TREASURE trails and interactive tours are on the card at one castle this summer.

Raby Castle, near Staindrop, County Durham, has announced a packed events programme for the school summer holidays.

Raby’s friendly footman Mike will bring history to life as he shares stories of castle over the centuries every Thursday and Saturday morning during his fun and educational family-friendly tours.

There will also be special events including forest school, outdoor theatre and August Bank Holiday with McColl's Brewery,

Forest school events include bow and arrow making and adventures in the castle grounds on August 21 and a Gruffalo Walk with woodland activities on August 28.

Tickets are now on sale for two outdoor theatre events, Romeo and Juliet on August 4 and Twelfth Night on August 10. Children under 16 go free. Picnics can be booked in advance.

Over the August Bank Holiday Raby Castle and McColl's Brewery will host a Garden Tap Weekend for all the family with with forest school crafts, Fairy Trail, face painting, archery and birds of prey along with craft beer, gin bar, music and street food.

Exclusive evening openings in the Walled Gardens will be held on Friday 17th and Friday 31st August.

Admission to the Tearooms, Gift Shop and Play Area are free throughout the summer and under fives are admitted free to the castle, park and gardens.

For more information or to book tickets for events at rabycastle.com