It has been in the headlines for offering the best views of Sandwich, and now St Peter’s Church tower is finishing the year off on another high.

Night-time tower tours will be the number one viewpoint to see the town’s Christmas lights turned on tonight (Saturday).

They will begin at 6.45pm, ahead of the switch-on at 7pm.

The event follows the annual lantern procession through the town, leaving the Guildhall from 6pm.

Usual prices apply but will include free mulled wine or a soft drink.

The tours will come after a Christmas fair in the church, which will run from 10am until 4pm.

Other events planned include the Festival of Christmas Trees – beautifully decorated Christmas trees, provided by local schools and businesses, on display in the church from December 10 to 17.

On Thursday, December 22, there will be performances of a A Brief History of Christmas at 2pm and 7pm. Acclaimed musicians will present a festive journey through 600 years of Christmas music, songs and stories.

Val Coward, sales executive at St Peter’s, said: “We’re delighted with our range of Christmas events at the church – I’m especially excited to see the lantern parade from the top of the tower, which will be magical.

“We’re planning to have more events at the church for 2017, and we feel that by combining a mix of traditional events and listening to new ideas, we hope to continue the legacy of St Peter’s at the heart of the community, bringing a fresh and enthusiastic approach.”

The church is cared for by The Churches Conservation Trust, the national charity which protects historic churches at risk, and has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers since the completion of the tower project.

The tower tours cost £5 for adults, £4 for children, concessions and groups of more than eight, or £15 for a family of two adults and two children.