THE magical world of myths and legends has come to life at Longleat's latest attraction, its hugely popular Festival of Light, which is now on until January 5.

Ceawlin Thynn, Viscount Weymouth, and his wife, Emma, officially switched on the lights for the first time on Friday November 8in front of Longleat House.

‘Myths and Legends’, which opened to the public on Saturday, takes visitors on a thrilling odyssey to discover epic tales from around the globe.

A spokesman said: "This year’s Festival of Light includes more than 3,000 lanterns, crafted using 50,000 LED lights and 30,000 metres of silk.

"Festive light shows will also be projected on to the front of the house for the very first time as part of a spectacular new feature.

"Visitors can even paint their very own lanterns using special light projections."

From the heroes and villains of Ancient Greece and Norse mythology to the Day of the Dead, the Arabian Nights and the tale of the Sword in the Stone; stunning glowing tableaux bring this mysterious realm to life.

Visitors will be able to enter the Land of the Gods and come face-to-face with Zeus and Poseidon.

Other features include Medusa, the half-man half-bull Minotaur, Cerberus, the three-headed hound and gatekeeper to the Underworld, and witness Hercules battle the many-headed serpent.

They will be able to watch in awe as the monstrous Kraken emerges from the depths of Longleat’s Half-Mile Lake to overwhelm a full-sized ship and they can see Jack the Giant Slayer take on his colossal foe.

Beware the troll as you step under his bridge and look out for the mischievous leprechauns and fairies of folklore inside the Fairy Garden.

Also on display are St George slaying the mighty dragon, Atlas, and King Midas.

Santa Trains will take visitors to meet Father Christmas in his wintry woodland grotto and there is a giant musical Christmas Tree.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling with the ‘Flight Before Christmas’ – a unique festive experience featuring real flying owls.

The Festival of Light opens Fridays to Sundays until November 30 and then daily from December 1 to January 5 (excluding Christmas Day).