Reality TV star to switch on Christmas lights

Christmas gets underway at Belvoir Castle and the Engine Yard on 20 November when the festive lights will be switched on by reality TV star Georgia ‘Toff’ Toffolo, former ‘I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here’ Queen of the Jungle.

Currently on screens in ‘Celebrity Hunted’ with Jungle campmate and father of the Prime Minister Stanley Johnson, the former ‘Made in Chelsea’ star will turn on the Christmas lights in the Engine Yard at 6.30pm on Wednesday 20 November. The opening of Santa’s Grotto, live music from a brass band and carol singers will add to a magical Christmas atmosphere. The event, in support of Hope Against Cancer, runs from 5pm to 9pm with free admission and parking.

This year will also see Belvoir Castle open for an extended period of 12 days with the stunning interiors dressed for Christmas with sparkles, costumed guides and spectacular decorated Christmas trees. Book online for visits between 24-29 November and 1-6 December.

Emma, Duchess of Rutland, said: “We love this time of year at Belvoir as the Castle and Engine Yard both look so magical twinkling with starry lights. Perfect for a festive experience away from the busy high street, visitors can expect a wonderful time browsing our shops and fairs, meeting Santa and sampling some festive fare. We do hope you’ll join us.”

There’s also plenty going on during this festive season at the Engine Yard for visitors of all ages, with the magical Santa’s Grotto complete with all manner of snowy scenes and festive features and the first of four weekend Christmas Fairs opening on 20 November.

Children can meet Santa in his magical Christmas Grotto where he will be taking up residence on selected days from 20 November to 23 December.

As well as the array of quality retailers in the Engine Yard, there will be free to enter Christmas fairs taking place every weekend starting with the Golden Button Christmas Fair offering quality gifts, clothes and food on 20 November followed by the Golden Button Countryside Christmas Fair for all things relating to country pursuits; the Golden Button Festive Food and Drink Fair and an extended popular monthly Makers Market.

For further information, times and prices and to book online, go to www.belvoircastle.com and www.engineyardbelvoir.com