Night-time park set to come alive

Enchanted evenings will take place in Botanic Gardens

Four different views of Belfast's Botanic Gardens will be seen by visitors this week.

The park is hosting a series of "enchanted evenings" over four nights, with some surprises emerging from the undergrowth.

"Hidden creatures" will appear as darkness falls and "twinkling lights will cast a different shadow creating a sense of anticipation as gnomes, pixies and fairies wake for their evening of fun", according to organisers.

Parks manager Alex McNeill said: "This will be the fifth year and each event has just got better and better with thousands of visitors coming along to be enchanted.

"It is amazing how illuminating key features of the gardens, such as the Palm House, Tropical Ravine and parkland trees presents visitors with a totally new scene to enjoy.

"Children especially enjoy being in an enchanted garden with hidden delights around each bend and with music, fire jugglers and performers adding to the atmosphere there is plenty to entertain and amuse them.

"We hope more people than ever will be attracted over the four nights, Thursday to Sunday."

Anyone wishing to attend the enchanted evenings can access the park via Botanic Avenue and Stranmillis gates from 1930 BST.

Tickets cost £3 for adults and £1 for children.