CHRISTMAS is being celebrated in spectacular fashion at a historic Tudor lodge near Wotton-under-Edge this year.

The National Trust-run Newark Park will host two Christmas weekends next month instead of the normal one weekend of its popular festive fair.

The weekend of December 5 and 6 is the first weekend of Christmas celebrations at the house with the entire building decorated from foliage from the Newark Park gardens as well as festive music, seasonal refreshments and a Christmas trail for children.

There will also be a visit from Father Christmas who will arrive at Newark at 11.30am and meet some of Newark’s visitors in the afternoon. He is even bringing a team of elves, as well as some special gifts with him.

To avoid disappointment it is recommended to book a meeting with Father Christmas in advance; tickets are £3.50 per child and can be booked by e-mail: newarkpark@nationaltrust.org.uk.

The second Christmas weekend on December 12 and 13 sees the return of the Christmas fair in Newark House.

A wide range of local gifts will be on offer at the fair with stalls spread over the three floors of Newark House and some additional stalls in front of the house.

The Christmas trail and refreshments will also be available on this weekend.

The house and gardens will be open from 11am-4pm on both weekends. Standard admission applies, with free admission for National Trust members and under 5s.

For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/newarkpark