The little-known UK market town that transforms into a Christmas wonderland

A North East market town is fast becoming one of Britain's best-kept Christmas secrets. Every winter, Bishop Auckland, in County Durham, turns into a scene straight out of a Christmas card, with its historic palace, sparkling light trails and even a magical train ride through the countryside.

The jewel in the crown is Auckland Palace, the former home of the Prince Bishops of Durham, which will be decked out in spectacular festive finery from November 21 to December 31. Twelve grand state rooms will be transformed - from a winter wonderland in the Gentlemen's Hall to a blush-pink and midnight-blue forest of Christmas trees in the Throne Room. Even the Palace's historic Long Dining Room will glitter with golden platters and velvet garlands set beneath the world-famous Zurbarán paintings.

Adding to the magic is the palace's 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity, one of the most important examples outside Italy. Standing 11ft tall and 15ft wide, it features more than 400 intricately carved figures.

But the celebrations don't stop there.

Outside, the grounds of the ancient Deer Park will glow once more with AGLOW - a 1.5-mile illuminated trail that has become one of the UK's must-see festive attractions.

Expect a 100-metre tunnel of lights, breathtaking laser shows, and one of the tallest Christmas trees in the North towering at 32 metres and bedecked with around 1km of lights.

Also, for the first time this year there will be a cosy tipi where families can warm up with mulled wine and hot chocolate.

Then down by the Christmas tree at Santa's Village, where cheeky elves provide live entertainment, visitors can indulge in festive street food in Santa's Village, including topped tater tots, hot turkey sandwiches, German sausages, crumble and custard and much more.

And for those who dream of a Christmas journey straight out of a film, the Santa Express will steam through the Weardale countryside.

Complete with hot chocolate, singing elves and a special visit from Santa himself, it's become a festive tradition for families across the North East.

With its historic streets, glowing parkland and magical attractions, Bishop Auckland is quietly cementing its reputation as the North's very own Christmas wonderland.