THE grounds of an historic hall will be transformed into an illuminated world to mark the return of its seasonal light display.

Visitors to Belsay Hall will be able to follow a glistening one-mile trail of lights through the picturesque gardens which have been decked out in impressive installations as part of its Enchanted event.

Among the features are four giant inflatable snakes and an outdoor disco complete with large glitter balls.

Guests are invited to step through tunnels and pathways of twinkling lights and marvel as the gardens burst in to life.

They are also being encouraged to take time to uncover secrets hidden deep within the grounds, including dancing fairies and extraordinary talking trees.

The event will give members of the public a rare opportunity to explore the property’s Grade I listed gardens in hours of darkness.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate will be available to guests and the on-site shop will be open late for any Christmas shopping which needs to be done. A selection of fairground rides and games will also be in attendance.

Catherine Miller-Gough, events project manager at English Heritage, which runs the hall, said: “Belsay Hall is a stunning site at any time of the year but in the evening, lit-up, it’s set to be extra special.

“This is going to be a wonderful event for all ages. We’ve got unique lights, marshmallows in our firepit, hot chocolate and food along the trail.

“It’s set to be a very spectacular event, which has proved extremely popular in the past so we recommend booking early.”

Enchanted at Belsay Hall will run over the weekends of December 5, December 12 and December 19, starting at 4.30pm.