Christmas may still be some time off - but Windsor Castle is going to be as festive as ever.

Visitors will see the State Apartments decked with twinkling lights, garlands and glittering Christmas trees.

The highlight of the display will be the 20-foot-high Nordmann Fir Christmas tree in St George's Hall, taken from Windsor Great Park and dressed in gold decorations. Wreaths and garlands decorated with gilded fruits and sparkling lights will transform the State Apartments and Semi-State Apartments, the private rooms of George IV that are only open to visitors during the winter months.

Throughout the Christmas period, visitors to Windsor Castle will be able to enjoy the special exhibition A Royal Wedding: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, on display between October 26 and January 6.

The exhibition will include the Duchess's wedding dress created by the British designer Clare Waight Keller, artistic director at the historic French fashion house Givenchy; the five-metre-long silk tulle veil, embroidered with the flora of the 53 countries of the Commonwealth; not to mention the diamond and platinum bandeau tiara, lent to the Duchess by the Queen.

On selected dates in December, visitors can enjoy a private evening tour of the castle led by an expert guide and offering a special behind-the-ropes experience. All tickets include a glass of champagne, a copy of the Official Souvenir Guide and a 20 per cent discount at Royal Collection Trust shop.

Tickets and visitor information: www.royalcollection.org.uk, Windsor Castle +44 (030) 123 7304.