Father and Mother Christmas will pay a visit to Abergavenny Castle from 11am to 4pm on Saturday December 12 and Sunday December 13 as the town’s museum presents a weekend of festive activities.

Christmas at the Castle promises to be one of Monmouthshire’s major seasonal attractions.

The highlight will be the Christmas trail leading to the town’s only festive grotto. Reserved tickets for specific times between 11am and 3pm are on sale in advance from the museum by phoning 01873 854282 – as well as on the actual days, subject to availability. The cost of £5 per child includes a gift.

Enhancing the atmosphere, the museum will feature family craft activities and serve mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies. Entry to the museum is free while a small charge will be made for the activities.

Meanwhile, festive activities take place in the town’s Market Hall on Saturday with the Abergavenny Winter Food Festival held on Sunday so residents and visitors can enjoy a packed day out – especially as parking will be free.

Monmouthshire County Council has agreed that no charge will be made for parking in the towns of Abergavenny, Chepstow and Monmouth over three Saturdays – December 5, 12 and 19.

County councillor Bob Greenland, cabinet member with responsibility for museums said, “There’s lots going on in Monmouthshire and I’m sure many will be enticed to visit Abergavenny over this weekend. The museum’s attractive Christmas at the Castle event is sure to appeal to a wide range of people looking to join in the county’s festive spirit.”