The annual free open evening at Colchester Castle will return next week. 

The historic castle will be opening its doors to the public for five hours on Wednesday (December 8). 

The event will also see carols sung and mince pies and mulled wine served. 

The event runs from 3pm to 8pm. 

Little ones can also meet Father Christmas and recieved a gift for a charge of £6. 

The open evening provides an opportunity to see the castle’s new exhibition Decoding The Roman Dead and learn more about life 2,000 years ago in Roman Britain.

The castle gift shop will be open for Christmas shopping with stocking fillers and jewellery items on sale. 

Read more >> When and where you can meet Santa in Colchester this Christmas

Darius Laws, the council's heritage boss, said: “Christmas is a magical time of year and this year, we’ve got some great events and Colchester inspired gift options lined up from medieval archery themed toys to replica Roman jewellery, for the adults.

"So come along and celebrate with us on the 8 December, but do not worry if you cannot make it; we have a packed calendar of festive events planned for the whole family to enjoy throughout December.

"Let us gather together family and friends and create some wonderful festive memories.”