The festive spirit is now in full swing at the Eden Project as visitors enjoy magical meetings with Father Christmas, watch a dazzling laser show and go skating across the sparkling ice rink.

Joined by his team of elves, the man in red has set up camp at Eden and children have a chance to meet him on selected dates up until Christmas Eve. They’ll also see Father Christmas and his helpers busy making, wrapping and packing for the big day and then hear a seasonal story beside an open fire.

The magic continues as visitors can go for a skate on the rink with different sessions to suit all ages and abilities. Outside they will see a special herd of reindeers in the form of six electric Renault Twizy vehicles which have been given a festive makeover including antlers, reindeer fur livery, fluffy brown noses and, of course, one red nose.

As darkness falls, Eden’s winter landscape, outdoors and the Mediterranean Biome are transformed by a spectacular laser show and live music as part of the Festival of Light and Sound running on selected dates throughout December.

There are also craft activities, storytelling and tasty seasonal food, including fire-pit-warmed hot chocolate in the Orchard area.

Kate Francis, Eden’s programme producer, said: “This Christmas at Eden is one of our most awe-inspiring ever as visitors can see Father Christmas and his elves behind the scenes packing presents, preparing a beautiful sleigh and spreading Christmas cheer. Then from twilight our Biomes and plant displays are lit by stunning lasers, bringing festive colour to the whole site.”

Christmas at Eden is running throughout December with different activities available on different days. The Festival of Light and Sound is included in the price of admission but bookings are required to see Father Christmas and for ice skating, with extra charges applying. All details of dates and costs are available on edenproject.com.