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Fans of the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's Merlin can get a sneak preview of the penultimate episode in this series by taking a trip back in time to the medieval era this weekend.

As part of its Medieval Christmas Fayre event, Caerphilly Castle has opened its stunning ramparts to offer exclusive screenings of the show, as a mark of respect for the cameo role the historic building has had in several episodes.

The programme, which won't be aired on Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ One until later in December, will be shown this Sunday 11 December in the castle's Great Hall.

And in the magical spirit of things, 20 golden tickets will be hidden around the castle on Saturday 10 December. Each person fortunate enough to find a ticket will be able to take along a family of up to four to one of the showings on Sunday and is guaranteed free entry to the castle on that day.

For those turning up on Sunday who have paid admission to the castle, there will be another 130 tickets per showing allocated on a first come first served basis.

Members of the cast of Merlin: Gwen (Angel Coulby), Arthur (Bradley James), Merlin (Colin Morgan), Morgana (Katie McGrath) and Uther (Anthony Head)

Fans will also be able to catch a close glimpse of original costumes from the hit series as well as a photographic display and a green screen that will enable them to transport themselves right into Merlin's mystical world.

The event is a joint venture between and Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Wales and is part of the weekend-long fayre, which sees a whole host of activities on offer at the 13th century castle.

Visitors are encouraged to transport themselves to a bygone era when sword-fighting, wizardry and jesters were the norm.

Sir Andrew, the Cadw Knight, will be running in his 'knight school' for young swashbucklers keen to hone their sword skills.

There will also be performances from the castle jester, music, dancing and combat sessions from Lion Rampart, medieval scenes by the Freemen of Gwent and an archery display from the Sons of the Dragon.

Throughout proceedings the Mirage Mummers will be acting out plays and the Hautbois will wheel around their medieval cart.

The Fayre takes place at the castle over Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December (10am-4pm). There will also be a range of stands including children's medieval costumes, mystical sculpture and jewellery, shields and swords, medieval leatherworks, basket weaving, a blacksmith, glass stalls and woodturning.

On top of the daytime events, the castle will be tripping the light fantastic with a digital sound and light show over the nights of Friday 9, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December.

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Photos of the Illuminata display at Caerphilly Castle. Photos: Illuminata

The Illuminata display will see the castle's walls of the inner ward ablaze with images capturing the building's long and varied history. There are two free showings each night at 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

The show will be followed by a medieval banquet, tickets for which can be bought at the castle or by calling 029 2088 3143.