Mermaids, selkies and fairies flying through enchanted forests feature in Bamburgh Castle's breathtaking Christmas Kingdom.
Inspired by northern myths and legends, the Northumberland Castle's staterooms have been transformed into a spectacular series of festive scenes for a unique Christmas experience created by theatrical designer Charlotte Lloyd Webber. Inspired by the folkloric stories, traditions and pastimes of North East England, the coastal castle's interiors have become a magical world where fairies flit and banquet, Selkies and mermaids sport by mythical pools, Yule traditions are celebrated and legendary characters marvellously reimagined.
Karen Larkin is visitor services manager at Bamburgh Castle. She said: “We are so excited and delighted by this year's Christmas Kingdom.
“It is a festive experience that's completely different to anything else. It draws on the folkloric myths and legends of the Castle and northern England which Charlotte has gilded with her magical Christmas genius.
"An absolute delight for all ages, our Christmas Kingdom is guaranteed to make you feel Christmassy while creating wonderful memories with your family and friends." Charlotte Lloyd Webber said: “Bamburgh Castle is steeped in stories from its rich folklore tradition dating back centuries.
“The occasion of Christmas presented us with a wonderful opportunity for us to conjure these tales for the delight of visitors of all ages.” Included in the installation are pieces designed and hand-made by sculptor and prop maker, Mandy Bryson.
Using mixed media 3D art combining sculpture, textiles and painting, Mandy also uses 'faux taxidermy' – an alternative to actual taxidermy. Her pieces include an astonishingly life like seal that forms part of a shapeshifting Selkie display, based on a North Sea myth of a part-seal, part-human creature.
Mandy said: “It has been so exciting to have been involved sculpting some of the mythical creatures for this year's Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle with pieces that look as if they've stepped straight from a fairy tale.
“Having sculpted for Castle Howard and Blenheim Palace it means so much to me to get the chance to make pieces for Bamburgh Castle. I am born and bred a Northumbrian and it is such an honour to have my pieces showcased in such an iconic and magical setting.
“My favourite is the seal head. He has such soulful eyes that just melt your heart! The Castle is so atmospheric and magical, especially seeing it dressed for Christmas”. The Enchanted Myths and Legends of Northumbria at Bamburgh Castle runs until Sunday 7 January, daily from 10am – 4pm.
Entrance is included with general admission tickets. The event is free to enter for Bamburgh Castle annual passholders.
