A Somerset landmark is set to glow with festive lights and a magical Christmas trail inspired by a classic carol.
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells will be transformed into The Illuminated Palace in time for the festive season, with a ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ trail running from Tuesday, December 1, to Sunday, January 3.
The experience will guide visitors through the historic rooms of the Palace and its gardens after dark.
Merryn Kidd, CEO of The Palace Trust, said: "There is something very special about seeing the Palace and gardens after dark, and this year The Illuminated Palace will take visitors right inside the historic Palace too.
"The Twelve Days of Christmas gives us a wonderful theme to have some fun with, not least because we already have some rather famous swans.
"We want visitors of all ages to make an occasion of it, whether that means bringing the family to experience The Illuminated Palace, meeting friends over festive food and drink or combining a visit with afternoon tea or one of our Secret Supper Clubs."
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The Palace will be decorated with dried flowers from its 14-acre RHS Partner Gardens, while illuminated displays and classical music will create a festive atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy seasonal food and drinks, with the Horsebox and Apple Store in the East Garden serving festive treats. On peak evenings, guests can stop in the medieval Undercroft for mulled wine, mince pies and other warm refreshments.
For those seeking a more indulgent evening, Festive Afternoon Teas will be available from 4pm to 6pm on peak dates, while two Secret Supper Clubs will be held on December 3 and 17 at 7.30pm.
Priced at £45 per person, the supper clubs offer dinner in the historic Palace and can be combined with the Illuminated Palace experience.
A visit to Father Christmas can also be booked on selected evenings from December 12 to 22.
The Illuminated Palace will be closed on December 24, 25, 26, and 31.
Peak tickets cost £12 for adults and £8 for children aged five to 17, with family tickets available for £38.
Off-peak tickets are £10 for adults and £6 for children, with family tickets available for £30.
The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens is operated by The Palace Trust, a registered charity.
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