THE National Trust is bringing joy, sprinkles of magic and a tingle of excitement for little ones this Christmas with events in and around Hampshire, including The Vyne near Basingstoke.

The atmospheric interiors of The Vyne in Sherborne St John will be decked out in Victorian festive finery, with twinkling lights and glittering Christmas trees.

The special Christmas activities will be held from November 26 to January 3.

Inspired by the mansion’s 18th century ‘Grand Tour’ treasures, which include an incredible casket encrusted with semi-precious stones, visitors will also find decorations that celebrate Christmas in Europe.

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There will also be sumptuous Venetian masks, mini ‘Colosseums’ and intricate Moravian stars to enjoy.

A special ‘Passport’ takes families on their own ‘Grand Tour’ adventure in the house and gardens, with activities to try that explore festive traditions in other countries.

Normal admission charges apply plus £2 per family passport including members

National Trust has also planned similar activities at Mottisfont near Romsey, Winchester City Mill, Hinton Ampner near Alresford and Uppark House and Garden in Petersfield.

The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 780 miles of coastline and 500 historic properties, gardens and nature reserves.

It is a conservation charity founded in 1895 by three people: Octavia Hill, Sir Robert Hunter and Hardwicke Rawnsley, who saw the importance of the nation's heritage and open spaces and wanted to preserve them for everyone to enjoy.