A MUSEUM is set to host a five-day Christmas festival.

The Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, will launch it's seasonal extravaganza on December 13 with a traditional fair in the museum grounds which will feature fairground rides, food and Santa in his grotto.

The annual Christmas market will also be held on December 15, 16 and 17 with more than 100 hand-picked stallholders, live music and seasonal entertainment.

A mix of art, exhibitions, music, theatre, comedy and film is also available with light sculpture installations at The Bowes Museum and The Witham creating a trail between the two venues.

At The Witham itself there will be a screening of Miracle on 34th Street on December 14 while musical performances at the TCR Hub will take place on December 16, with local performers and regional talent.

While aimed at families, the event will continue late into the night, complemented by seasonal refreshments in the café. For more information visit barnardcastlechristmasfestival.co.uk