Here are the first pictures of an immersive night-time performance set to transform a County Durham Castle.

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens invited guests for a special preview of The Glittering North, billed as a rare spectacle of live music, dance, and intriguing puppetry that springs to life at night on chosen dates throughout October and into early November.

The performances celebrate the region's Norse and Viking heritage with colourful characters like Gullinburstin, a boar with golden bristles that illuminate the night, and Sleipnir, an enormous, brightly lit horse with eight legs.(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Among the guests were TV personality former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt and her partner Scott Dobinson with their son Jude, as well as TV personality Helen Skelton. 

Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Estate said: "The change from summer to autumn marks the start of cosy nights with hands warming round a mug of hot chocolate, fiery clusters of red and orange as the trees change colour and crunchy leaves beneath your feet.

"Our captivating new event provides a festoon lit and atmospheric autumnal celebration, full of feasting, warm blankets, torchlight and fire processions, designed to set imaginations alight in a spectacle never seen before in County Durham."(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The castle's remodelled 18th-century Walled Garden is to be the site of the 'trail of the north,' encompassing a radiant, immersive space replete with photo opportunities.

In addition to the 'trail of the north,' the Dutch Barn will be decked out with lights, flags, bunting, and barrels, with folk musicians entertaining the crowds.

The Riding School draws visitors into a transformed, mythical world filled with fascinating stories about Norse gods and shape-shifting creatures.TV personality Helen SkeltonTV personality Helen Skelton (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

To round off the experience, the Vinery café restaurant's new range of artisan food and drink will be available for visitors, and the Coach House will showcase a selection of high-quality goods.

Tickets for The Glittering North can be booked for the following dates: October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, 30, 31 and November 1, 2, 3. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £13 for children.

For more information and to book tickets, visit the event's official website.

(Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott)