Shugborough is set to transform into Staffordshire's most magical festive experience after a sell out Halloween event which saw almost 4,000 people descend on the haunted mansion house and a bumper bonfire night pulling in almost 5,000.

Now it's all hands to the deck as the house transforms for the renowned Candlelit Christmas Evenings on December 1 to December 4.

With an event rivalling the Christmas festivities put on at royal palaces and treasure houses, Christmas at Shugborough is promising to be even better than ever.

Hundreds of candles will be lit in the mansion and the stately rooms will be filled with fresh flowers and rich foliage taken from the estate's own grounds. Ladies from Stone Flower Club and Chaseside Flower Club work tirelessly every year to present new and exciting floral arrangements to wow visitors. It is the only time of year that the magnificent red drawing room chandelier is lit and a unique opportunity to enjoy the evening atmosphere of the mansion house's more intimate rooms.

The servants' quarters will be filled with the warming scents of Christmas as puddings are steamed, ale is brewed and traditional delights are cooked up in the Victorian Kitchen. Costumed servants will bustle about and the working areas will be decorated with delightful greenery.

Elsewhere there will be the opportunity to stock up on Christmas gifts in the craft marquee with over 50 stalls and enjoy some festive food and drink from a traditional hog roast to delicious hot chestnuts and mulled wine.

Father Christmas will be visiting to greet children in his grotto and to summon up beautiful snow showers every hour throughout each evening. He will also be bringing real reindeer with him along with a host of entertainers including carol singers, brass bands, jugglers and stilt walkers. In the Midden Yard visitors can enjoy a nativity scene with real people and animals. There'll also be a family marquee with free face painting, puppet show performances and children's musical workshops.

The Christmas Candlelit Evenings are open from 5pm until 9pm on Wednesday December 1 until Saturday December 4. 

Prices are: adult £10 (on the night £12), concession £7.50 (on the night £9.50), child £5 (on the night £7), family in advance £26 (on the night £30), 1 adult & 1 child £13 (on the night £15). Under fives are free.