A series of festive events are set to take place at Lydiard Park this festive season.

The Swindon Borough Council-owned country estate will kick off its winter programme with the return of the Lydiard Park Christmas lights switch-on.

The free event is scheduled for Friday, November 29, from 4.30pm to 6pm.

Visitors will be treated to a performance by the Aldbourne Brass Band as they play Christmas favourites against the backdrop of Lydiard House before the 60-metre tree is illuminated.

Festive treats and drinks will also be available to buy throughout the event.

From Wednesday, December 4, the state rooms of Lydiard House will be adorned with traditional foliage and a Christmas tree decorated with handmade ornaments.

Arrangements created by the Royal Wootton Bassett Flower Club will add to the festive decor.

Visitors can enjoy the decorated halls with a special guided tour of Lydiard House, complete with cream tea, on selected Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout December.

Tickets cost £20 per person and must be booked in advance.

Self-guided visits to A Country House Christmas at Lydiard House Museum are also available during opening hours.

Tickets cost £6.30 for adults and £3.45 for children, with family tickets also available and under threes entering for free.

St Mary’s Church within Lydiard Park will host its annual Carols by Candlelight service on December 10 and 17.

Visitors can enjoy traditional carols and festive readings, followed by cream tea.

Tickets cost £18 and must be booked in advance.

The newly-refurbished Lydiard Park Hotel is preparing to host numerous Christmas parties.

Tickets cost £55 per person, including a drink on arrival, a three-course dinner, and a disco. Smaller groups are invited to join the hotel’s group party nights.

Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for placemaking and planning, said: "Lydiard Park and the house are the perfect backdrop for a Christmas visit - elegant, stately, and picturesque.

"I’m thrilled that this year we have more events taking place across the park, museum, and hotel."

On Boxing Day, families enjoying a winter walk at Lydiard Park can buy Boxing Day butties from The Palm Bar & Restaurant at Lydiard Park Hotel.

A selection of meats, including braised lamb, turkey, and pulled beef, will be available, with vegetarian and vegan options also on offer.

For those looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style, Lydiard Park Hotel is hosting a party with a glass of fizz on arrival, a three-course dinner, and dancing.