Staffordshire's finest Christmas experience is set to begin in
just over a week's time as Father Christmas and his reindeer
descend on Shugborough for the estate's famous Candlelit Christmas
Evenings.
At this year's event visitors can meet Santa and join him in a
giant wish for snow and then watch in wonder as magical snow
showers fall in the courtyard. There's also the opportunity to meet
and stroke his real reindeer.
The stately home, near Stafford, hosts four extra special
candlelit evenings every year. The mansion house is filled with
fresh flowers and lit by the shimmering lights of hundreds of
candles. The Victorian servants' quarters are filled with foliage
from the estate's own gardens and busy with the hustle and bustle
of costumed servants.
The estate is set in some of the region's most glorious
wintertime countryside and the whole festive scene is brought to
life each year with brass bands, carol singers, school choirs,
stilt walkers and jugglers. There is even a puppet theatre, free
face painting, a nativity scene with real animals and fun musical
workshops for youngsters to take part in.
In addition, set against the backdrop of the stunningly lit
mansion house, is the craft, gift and food marquee, filled with
specialist sellers offering a wide range of unique Christmas gifts
for sale.
There is also plenty of festive fare available on each evening
from hot punch and mulled wine to turkey rolls and a hog roast.
The evenings take place from Wednesday December 1 to Saturday
December 4 from 5pm until 9pm. To receive heavily discounted
tickets visitors can either buy online at www.shugborough.org.uk or
telephone 0845 459 8900.
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.