A FESTIVAL with a difference will take place at Sudeley Castle next summer, which organisers promise will be like ‘dreaming with your eyes open’.

The event will see a host of costumed characters from around the world visit the Winchcombe attraction for a weekend of music, fantasy, entertainment and wonder.

For the first time, characters from all genres will gather together for the Fantasy Forest festival which will take place over the weekend of July 20 and 21 next year.

Visitors are invited to don their favourite costume to join the event and mingle alongside a host of characters, ranging from fairies, pirates and Vikings, to storm troopers, knights and elves.

Live music will also be on offer from leading Celtic rock groups The Dolmen and Greenrose Faire, as well as Irish folk band Harmony Glen and UK folk-goth band Inkubus Sukkubus.

Tickets have now gone on sale for the family-friendly festival.

Highlights of the festival will include appearances from one of the world’s leading armourers, Terry English, who has created armour for many classic film productions including Excalibur and Aliens.

To find out more about the event visit fantasyforest.co.uk/