VISITORS to Helmsley Castle can learn about the origins of Christmas traditions this weekend.

Costumed characters from historic re-enactment duo, Heuristics, will be at the castle on Saturday and Sunday to explain the stories that lie behind Christmas celebrations.

The event, called Medieval Christmas, will take the form of 90-minute interactive presentations by costumed interpreters, at 11am and 1.30pm on both days.

Visitors attending the sessions can also take advantage of English Heritage's Christmas shopping weekend. All items in the gift shop will be reduced by ten per cent.

Admission to the event is £4 for adults, £3 for concessions and £2 for children.