A colourful trail with thousands of twinkling lights is set to transform a Kent castle this Christmas.

Gardens, pathways and historic features will decorate Walmer Castle near Deal throughout December.

The event at the Tudor fortress turned country house will be produced by Kilimanjaro Live in partnership with English Heritage.

It will run every day throughout December, excluding Christmas Day, until New Year’s Day.

As well as the lights, there will be festive food, warming cocktails and backdrops to capture moments on camera.

Creative director Katherine Jewkes will work alongside light art pioneers, Illumaphonium, to bring together a trail.

The company will bring their self-titled installation ‘Illumaphonium’ to the castle which is a dynamic and interactive, multi-sensory, music-making installation.

Ms Jewkes said: “We’re delighted to bring an all-new light trail to Walmer Castle for 2023.

“We can’t wait for visitors to join us this festive season as we reimagine Walmer’s stunning grounds.”

Stuart Galbraith, chief executive of Kilimanjaro Live said: “Walmer Castle is a truly magnificent venue for our magical Christmas light trails. We can’t wait to open the doors and bring this beautiful, multi-sensory experience there for the first time.”

Neil McCollum, head of historic properties English Heritage, Kent said: “We’re so excited to be launching a brand-new Christmas light trail this festive season in partnership with Kilimanjaro Live.

“The new Christmas At Walmer Castle trail will be a spectacular festive feast for the senses, and the perfect way to get the family into the yuletide spirit.

“We can’t wait to see Walmer Castle’s historic grounds transformed into a magical winter wonderland through music and light installations.”

Tickets for the event start from £17 for children aged three to 16, and £22.75 for an adult.

While there have been light trails at the castle before, this is the first time it will be organised by Kilimanjaro Live who manage a number of Christmas light events across the UK.