GODOLPHIN gets a festive make over this week as it |perpares for seasonal |celebrations.

Opening from Saturday until December 14, from 10am to 4pm, you are invited to |celebrate a family Christmas at the house. The historic estate will be decorated for the festive season with |beautiful foliage, garlands and wreaths.

On Saturday and Sunday Helston Town Concert Band will play some carols in the courtyard from 11.30am to 1.30pm, and from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

Hayle Town Band will also be playing carols at the house on December 14 from 11.30am to 1.30pm, and 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

On selected weekends, including this weekend, |there will be craft activities |in the Kings Room where |you can help make |decoupage decorations for Godolphin’s 15ft Christmas tree. Why not make another one to take home too?

Try dressing up in a night shirt in the Godolphin |bedroom and jump under the luxurious bed covers to get a feel of a 1700s style bedroom at Christmas.

If you’re keen to get in the Christmas spirit and looking for some inspiration, there will be a mince pie making demonstration on Tuesday, December 2 and 9.

Visit the kitchen from 11am to 3pm to pick up some handy hints and tips on crisp pastry and rich mincemeat.

If you’re stuck for some Christmas gift ideas, try something from the gift shop. The gardens and estate at Godolphin are open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so why not enjoy a walk in the crisp |winter air and visit the Piggery for teas and coffees to warm up afterwards.

See www.national|trust.org.uk/godolphin or call 01736 763194 for more information.