Layout
Raby Castle has an irregular plan, with nine towers along it perimeter. The main entrance was in the west through the four-storey Neville Gateway. The gatehouse used to be accessed by a drawbridge, but it has since been replaced by a flagged causeway. The gatehouse originally contained three portcullis, evidenced by the groves still visible used to work them.
The two smaller towers beside the gatehouse have no defensive function and were added during the renovations of Henry Vane, 2nd Earl of Darlington.
Access to the gatehouse is gained by a door through the enclosing wall of enceinte, which rose to a height of thirty feet from the waters of the moat. This is strengthened periodically by buttress towers and formed the second line of defense, the moat being the first. The passage along the parapet was the ancient chemin de ronde (allure) on which guards were posted. Similar passages can be found at York Castle and around the city of Oxford.
The castles buildings surround a central courtyard. Forming its east side is the great hall, also known as the "Baron's Hall". The medieval kitchen and keep are mostly intact on the inside.
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