Leeds Castle has partnered with Frederick Warne & Co., the owners of the Beatrix Potter brand to celebrate the final month in the 150th anniversary year of the cherished British children’s author. From 3^rd December until 2^nd January, visitors to “the Loveliest Castle in the World” will be immersed in the magical world of Beatrix Potter with her famous characters expressed in the most delightfully creative ways around the Castle.

Families will be captivated by the beautiful displays as they wander through the Castle; many of the exquisitely created scenes and installations are full size, giving visitors a wonderful insight into the delightful world of one of our most beloved children’s authors.

Highlights include a life-size interpretation of Mr. McGregor’s Shed, charmingly re-created and complete with everything one would expect to find in a Victorian potting shed, including his muddy boots and packed shelves – not to mention evidence of Peter Rabbit and his friends’ mischief!

Beatrix Potter’s study is a realistic but magical space displaying her sketch books, paint brushes, diaries, fossils and feathers that she used to craft her stories; surrounded by woodland noises that she craved during her times of inspiration.  Watch closely and you may even see her shadowy silhouette moving around the room – you really believe that you have entered her world.

In each room stands a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, with clues for the enchanting Beatrix Potter trail which takes families around the whole Castle.  Children will write their Christmas wishes on themed postcards which they can post and will be delivered to her study each evening.

Thomas Merrington, Beatrix Potter Brand Guardian at Frederick Warne & Co., part of Penguin Random House UK said; “The 150th anniversary has allowed us to celebrate and re-imagine the wonderful works of Beatrix Potter with fans of all generations up and down the country. What better way to end this year of celebration than with this stunning and immersive Christmas installation at Leeds Castle in Kent, bringing together incredibly creative floral artists, prop makers and admired set designers to interpret Potter’s beloved characters in a truly unique and magical way.”

Alysha Sargent, Head of Events at Leeds Castle said; “These delightful scenes fit so perfectly around the Castle. So many people have grown up with Beatrix Potter and hold her close to their hearts.  We are especially looking forward to watching parents and grandparents sharing their childhood memories with their own children and grandchildren at this nostalgic trip down memory lane.”

The annual Christmas Market makes a welcome return to the Castle and takes place from 10am until 5pm on 3^rd, 4th, 10^th,11th, 17^th, 18^th, 22^nd and 23^rd December 2016.  Over 60 stalls displaying a splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations, specialist food and drink will be set to a back drop of festive live musical entertainment.  Visitors will be able to meet reindeer and birds of prey as they wander around the market stalls selecting gifts for their loved ones.  The centrepiece of the market will be a nostalgic fairground with a Victorian carousel, high flying ‘chair-o-planes’ and a big wheel giving spectacular views of the Castle.

Entry to the Castle, gardens, Christmas Market and to see the Beatrix Potter scenes are included in the standard admission price – giving unlimited visits during normal opening hours.

www.leeds-castle.com/What%E2%80%99s+On/Christmas/A+Tale+of+Christmas+at+Leeds+Castle/