The tree is up, the garlands are across the fireplace and you might even meet the real Father Christmas himself if you visit Bamburgh Castle this Christmas.
As well as being open every weekend, Bamburgh Castle is open throughout the Christmas Holidays from December 22nd through to January 5th (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day).
And while we’re all familiar with the traditional Santa Claus with his flowing white beard and hat, look out for our traditional Victorian Father Christmas who is dropping into Bamburgh Castle every weekend until December 22nd.
Karen Larkin is Bamburgh Castle events manager. She said: “Bamburgh Castle’s Victorian Father Christmas dates from 1850-1920 and is rather different to the conventional Santa Claus made popular by Coca Cola who apparently commercialised Santa and his red outfit around 1937.
“Children visiting Bamburgh Castle certainly love our Victorian Father Christmas and hearing his little stories about silver treasure being buried on Holy Island and a hoard of coins being discovered nearby. There may even be a coin for children to keep, as well.”
As well as Bamburgh’s Victorian Father Christmas, you’ll enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Christmas Lights in Bamburgh village Grove below and twinkling in the distance at Seahouses. There’s live music recitals on the harp, Northumberland pipes and piano, while Spike’s children’s trail has been given a festive touch by none other than Walter, Bamburgh Castle’s resident elf.