CASTLE Howard’s grand interiors have once again been decorated for Christmas as the magnificent stately home opens its doors for the festive season, until Wednesday 23 December. This year traditionally adorned wreaths, trees and Howard family twigs sit alongside a number of new installations designed to add further drama and theatre to each space.

A winter forest of real pine trees interspersed with a carpet of moss and fairylights transforms the Garden Hall and a dramatic pendant of larch, hydrangeas, berries and silver asparagus ferns is suspended from the Octagon at the centre of the Long Gallery.

In the High South clusters of large garland swirls corkscrew downwards sparkling with lights, and giant baubles reflect the glow around the space creating a unique experience.

Hannah Jones, Visitor Services manager said: ‘Castle Howard at Christmas is one of the most magical times of year and visitors return year on year to see our interiors transformed. This year we wanted to add something a little different.

‘The spirals in the high south add a striking grandeur and contrast to the fire damaged rooms, whilst the living foliage chandelier in the Long Gallery glistens and twinkles, drawing the visitor along the length of the room among the row of sparkling Christmas trees.’

Other highlights include the bedroom suite which plays a host to a giant doll’s house, a pair of oversized nutcracker figures and a dazzling ruby red twig covered with technicolour baubles and figurines, which will mesmerise younger visitors.

Castle Howard is open daily until Wednesday 23 December. The house opens at 11am with last entry at 4pm on weekdays and 5pm at weekends.

For more information on Christmas events at Castle Howard visit www.castlehoward.co.uk