CHRISTMAS celebrations are returning to Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott.

The attraction near Melrose has extended its 2024 festive season into January 2025, ensuring families can enjoy the 'magical' events throughout the school holidays.

The festivities commence on November 23 with the reopening of Sir Walter Scott’s house, adorned with decorations installed as they might have been 200 years ago, during Scott’s time at Abbotsford.

The house will also host The Waverley Tree, one of Scotland’s largest book trees, assembled from around 350 books.

Visitors can also take advantage of the house’s free Christmas-themed guided tour, which will be available at noon each day.

From December 1, children can meet Santa in his cottage grotto or enjoy a scrumptious breakfast with him in Ochiltree’s café.

Mrs Claus will also grace Ochiltree’s with her presence for a series of festive storytelling events.

Abbotsford’s Witch Corner supernatural sculpture trail, launched in 2023, will once again be part of Abbotsford’s Christmas festivities.

The Witch’s Cottage will be transformed into a cosy Santa’s grotto, and the sculpture trail will be adorned with festive sights and sounds, including a special children’s activity trail.

Julie Merrilees, commercial manager at Abbotsford, said: "It’s fantastic to be bringing a full programme of Christmas events back to Abbotsford this year for our longest ever season.

"There are events for the whole family, from Wreath Making Workshops to Breakfast with Santa, and we can’t wait to welcome visitors from across the Borders and further afield to enjoy them."

Tickets can be booked at the Abbotsford website.