RABY Castle will be starting its festive season on Sunday (November 30) with the Taste of Teesdale Christmas market.

Freshly cut Christmas trees will be on sale at the event, from 10am until 4pm, which is organised by the Barnard Castle Farmers Market.

About 30 stalls will also be offering the very best food and drink ideas from around the region including fresh Raby venison.

There will also be a chance to win a luxury Christmas hamper in the prize draw as well as the local folk band, Gegenforde, who will be providing the entertainment.

There will also be two additional mini-markets on Sunday, December 7 and 14, featuring a smaller, hand-picked selection of local food and drink, including fresh venison and game, handmade preserves, locally produced fudge and artisan breads.

Rachel Milner, events manager at Raby Castle, near Staindrop, said: “The Christmas Producers Markets are a really great addition to what we already offer in the lead up to Christmas, it means we really are a one-stop shop for everything you need, from the tree, to the decorations to the food.”

Admission and parking is free and the Raby Castle Christmas Trees, with the Christmas shop and tearooms open daily between 10am and 5pm from November 30, until December 22.

For more information visit www.rabycastle.com or call 01833-660202.