YOUNG visitors to York’s Castle Museum are getting the chance to meet Father Christmas in a magical Victorian setting.

The museum is running a ‘Victorian Christmas Experience’ until the end of December, offering visitors a chance to stroll along the cobbles of its twinkling Victorian street; Kirkgate and see its shop windows dressed for the festive season.

A spokeswoman said there was a trail to follow and crafts to complete before a visit to Santa Claus, who is waiting in ‘Elf School’ with a traditional gift.

“New for 2018, the museum will be opening its doors after hours for unforgettable twilight evenings with Father Christmas, where visitors can step in from the cold wintery nights for a truly unique twilight experience,” she said.

“These take place on Thursdays, from November 29 to December 20, between 4.30pm and 7.30pm.”

She said Chris Cade would be back for his tenth year to entertain the crowds with his immersive one-man show of A Christmas Carol on selected days, with an added special evening event for adults on December 14 to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Dickens classic.

Sarah Yates, assistant curator of history - learning, said: “We have been busy behind the scenes getting ready for the best Christmas yet at York Castle Museum.

“With our beautiful decorated street, Father Christmas, gingerbread making and performances of A Christmas Carol, we are also opening on selected Thursday evenings to tie in with late night shopping in the city.”

She added that tickets could only be booked online for the Evenings with Father Christmas and A Christmas Carol by visiting www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/Christmas