STAFF at Buckland Abbey have been busy decorating the abbey, garden and estate and getting into the Christmas spirit.

Visitors will be welcome for Christmas lunches or other events such as 'Carols in the Barn' and 'Buckland by Candlelight'.

The National Trust estate will be open daily from December 7 to 23 from 11am to 4.30pm.

With the kitchen fire lit, Great Hall traditionally decorated and a table awash with Victorian sweet treats, visiting Buckland Abbey in December will give visitors the chance to experience a little of what Christmas was like in times gone by.

There will be a trail to find Father Christmas in his grotto at the weekends (£2 extra), along with pomander making everyday and a chance to meet costumed guides.

Following on from the successful evening opening last year, the abbey will be open for a magical 'Buckland by Candlelight' on Saturday, December 15 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

Jon Cummins, house and visitor services manager, said: 'Visit then and you'll see Buckland in a different light — quite literally.

'Welcomed by our butler and housekeeper, you'll be given mulled wine and stollen and greeted by costumed guides as you walk around the abbey.'

'Carols in the Barn' with the Salvation Army band will take place on December 4. This event usually fills up quickly so interested people are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. The event is £2.50 which includes a mince pie and a hot drink.

There will also be drop-in workshops with artist Claire Packer. Visitors can try their hand at making silk Christmas cards on December 9 (11am to 4pm, £3 extra), and create their own felt decorations on December 16 (11am to 4pm, £3 extra).

The traditional Mummers play will take place on December 9 and visitors can indulge their artistic side on December 22 at a calligraphy and decorated letters event, (11am to 4pm, no extra charge).