The "magical" Northumberland village where it's Christmas all year round has switched on its festive Christmas lights for the first time.

Lilidorei at the Alnwick Garden has shed its autumnal theme to become a twinkling winter wonderland in the lead up to December 25, with more than 1,300 Nordic Christmas trees and 10,000 fairy lights. The attraction, which opened in May, is themed around nine clans who plan for Christmas all-year round, and includes the world's largest play structure, named Elfwin Drin.

In its first actual Christmas, there will be a "concealed corner" where visitors can meet Father Christmas, while seven of his reindeer will be on site and can be fed. There is also a competition to come up with a unique name for the newest member of the herd.

The Christmas lights switch-on took place on Monday, but was more low key than intended after a yellow weather warning was issued for wind and rain due to Storm Debi. Nevertheless, the Duchess of Northumberland and Lilidorei staff are eagerly anticipating the attraction's first festive season.

Mark Brassell, CEO of The Alnwick Garden: "The first Christmas at Lilidorei is incredibly special. The whole concept was created around Christmas and the clan's planning for it all year round.

"To open the iconic gates and welcome guests into this winter wonderland of intrigue and delight, gaining a first look around Father Christmas's grotto and workshops, has been a pleasure and we look forward to everyone visiting to experience the Christmas magic for themselves."

Christmas lights at Lilidorei
Christmas lights at Lilidorei

As well as Christmas at Lilidorei, Alnwick Garden's winter light trail has now returned "bigger and better than ever before." There are a variety of new light installations in a range of colours, while local vendors are selling festive snacks and winter warmers alongside the trail.

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