Christmas has come to Warwick Castle – with a light trail through the grounds, an ice skating rink beneath the turrets, stories with Santa in the Great Hall, and a festive food and drink market.
Opened by Britain’s Got Talent sensation Eva Abley, the teenage comedian who stole the heart of the nation as she joked about her cerebral palsy in this year’s final, the seasonal special runs all the way through to January 3.
Take a tour with travel writer Paul Cole from Paul Cole Travels:

1. Warwick Castle Christmas lights visitor Eva Abley
Here’s what to expect from this year’s incarnation... | Paul Cole

2. First impressions at Warwick Castle Christmas lights trail
Your first view of the castle as you enter the grounds is, as always, impressive. It is, after all, one of Britain’s mightiest. Painted in shifting colours, Guy’s Tower stands high above a modest Festive Market, which is lit by strings of Christmas lights. | Paul Cole

3. Music and food at WAtwick Castle Christmas Lights Trail
There’s seasonal music playing and enticing aromas from the food and drink stalls, which offer festive fare such as chestnuts – you can toast your own – mulled wine, spiced apple cider, candy floss and all manner of sweet snacks. | Paul Cole

4. Food prices at Warwick Castle Christmas Lights Trail
It’s effectively street food fare so you should expect prices to match. On our visit, a modestly-sized slow cooked hot pork roll cost £7.80 and a small paper cup of mulled wine weighed in at £6.30. There’s a small licensed pop-up bar with Purity beers. | Paul Cole