First look at this year's Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle

From shimmering mermaids and dancing fairies to legends of Lancelot, tales of yore and a fire-breathing dragon, the Christmas Kingdom is sprinkling some festive magic once more at Bamburgh Castle.

This year's theme is Northumbria's Myths & Legends and there's plenty to explore as you walk your way through the majestic landmark.

Following on from her sumptuous The Twelve Days of Christmas installation last year, theatrical designer Charlotte Lloyd Webber and her event design team have worked their magic again at the castle's state rooms, with the Christmas Kingdom opening to the public from Saturday, November 11.

This year, Berwick-upon-Tweed sculptor Mandy Bryson has also created some one-off festive pieces for the extravaganza made with faux taxidermy.

Another new addition this year is a soundscape, specific to each of the room's displays to create a feast for the senses.

Claire Watson-Armstrong, who is the current custodian of Bamburgh Castle along with her husband Francis, said: "It's a theme that's really close to our hearts here at Bamburgh.

"It's an iconic castle above the Northumberland coast, so these themes that the amazing Charlotte Lloyd-Webber has designed are all drawn from actual myths and folkology and legends, so we have our incredible selkies, the tale of the seal that slipped its skin and became a beautiful maiden, and that comes from the Farne Islands.

"And then we have tales of fairy rings and all sorts of incredible things that you can see all around the castle and we're just so excited about it. It takes your breath away and it's just glorious."

It's the third year of the Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle with each year having a different theme.

"It's just the most breath-taking extravaganza, the largest indoor Christmas experience in the region and it's just a delight for all ages, it really is," added Claire.

"And if this won't get you into the Christmas spirit, I don't know what will. The castle is magical all through the year, but at Christmas time, it really does come into its own and it's very special."

Dates and entrance

The Enchanted Myths and Legends of Northumbria at Bamburgh Castle runs from Saturday 11 November – Sunday 7 January, daily from 10am – 4pm, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Entrance is included with general admission tickets: Adults £17 / Children £8.50 / Children aged four and under free of charge. 

Other Christmas events at the castle

Meet Father Christmas experience – 18 November – 23 December 

An enchanting and truly magical opportunity for children – and those young at heart - to meet Father Christmas himself at Bamburgh Castle in his fairy tale grotto - £19.95 per child (in addition to general admission ticket). 

 Christmas Wreath Making 21, 24, 27 & 30 November  Make and adorn your very own Christmas Wreath in the glorious setting of Bamburgh Castle. Sessions last around two hours and include all materials, expert tuition and refreshments. £59.95 per person. 

Details of further Christmas events will be added to the website. Visit www.bamburghcastle.com for more details and to book tickets.