THE nights are starting to draw in, and the light is becoming dimmer each morning, but Beeston Castle is taking visitors back to an even darker time this October half-term – the Dark Ages!

Throughout the half term holiday, young visitors to the castle will be able to find out just what it would have been like to live during the time when the Roman empire had fallen and the Vikings were pillaging their way across Europe. Children will have the chance to try on costumes from the era, from the stately robes of the feudal kings and queens to the much more modest clothing of serfs and commoners. There will even be some child-sized armour and helmets, so parents are advised to bring their cameras!

Beeston Castle’s staff will also challenge visitors to complete a Viking Trail, hunting around the grounds of the castle for a series of small Vikings. Those who complete the trail will then be rewarded with a delicious piece of plunder when they return their completed trail sheet to Beeston Castle’s visitor centre.

“October is always a great time to visit Beeston Castle – the colours of the foliage around the site’s woodland walk are absolutely stunning, and on a clear autumnal day, you can see eight counties from the cliff-top inner bailey,” said visitor operations manager, Mark Hodgson. “With the dressing up activities and Viking trail, Beeston is a wonderful option for visits this half term.”

The site is open daily throughout the October half-term week (October 25-29) from 10.00am to 4pm. Admission prices are £5.30 for adults, £4.50 for concessions and just £2.70 for children, or free for English Heritage members.