A special festive-themed murder mystery event is set to take place against the backdrop of a stunning Cumbrian castle.

Highly Suspect, a Carlisle-based theatre troupe, will host the murder mystery – Happily Never After – at Lowther Castle on Saturday, December 8.

A dark twist on the classic tale of Cinderella, the event is suitable people aged 16 and above and ideal for groups looking for an alternative Christmas celebration.

The play will be accompanied by a three-course dinner and each table will form a team to help unravel the mystery throughout the evening.

The show is part of a packed schedule of festive events, craft workshops and entertainment to be held at Lowther Castle throughout December and January with the venue expecting its busiest ever festive period this year.

Claire Logan-Stephens, head of marketing, groups and events at Lowther Castle said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Highly Suspect back to Lowther Castle.

"We hope everyone enjoys Happily Never After in the castle courtyard and that those responsible for the Fairy Godmother’s murder are swiftly apprehended.”

Lexie Ward, murderess-in-chief at Highly Suspect said: "We are absolutely delighted to be bringing one of our most popular mysteries to the gorgeous Lowther Castle. Happily Never After is such a fun twist on a seasonal murder mystery - it starts with a full mini pantomime of Cinderella, before we discover that the fairy godmother - or rather the actress playing her, Olivia Broadchurch - is dead.

"Full of twists, cryptic clues and suspicious characters, this is the perfect alternative way to celebrate the festive season."

* Tickets can be booked on the Lowther Castle website.