National Trust property Hinton Ampner near Alresford has welcomed thousands of visitors so far during its Christmas season.

People flocked to Hinton Ampner to see the house and grounds transformed with scenes inspired by children’s novel The Wind in the Willows.

Inside they enjoyed beautifully decorated rooms full of sparkle, as well as decorations and colourful props that re-created famous moments from the book.

A highlight was Toad’s motor car, which he’d crashed between two wonky Christmas trees in the drawing room, with windscreen wipers still whirring and a loose wheel.

Next door on the plush sofas they saw Ratty and Mole fast asleep in front of the fire.

In the dining room visitors came across a magnificent feast scene and overturned chairs – the weasels having taken over Toad Hall for a party.

Throughout, there were magnificent Christmas trees.

Kids loved Mole End – Mole’s cosy home in the garden, the path to its front door lined with colourful red mushrooms. Another highlight was Toad’s life-size yellow gypsy caravan on the lawn in front of the house, pulled by beautiful willow deer.

Visitor operations and experiences manager Michaela Saunders-Hall said: “We’ve had such a great reaction to Christmas at Hinton this winter. It’s been really heart-warming after all the months of planning, designing and creating.

“There’s just so much to see in each room, the detail is amazing. Children have been loving the special effects, like the windscreen wipers on Toad’s car moving and the sound of the horn tooting.

“Another favourite was seeing the weasels doing the washing up in the scullery with the sound of gurgling water in the background. But one of the most popular things has been the storytelling sessions in our second-hand bookshop. They’re led by volunteers and they’re going down a storm.”

The Wind in the Willows at Christmas runs until tomorrow (Monday)..

Booking a visit is essential. Call 0344 249 1895 or visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner