A cast of quirky creatures is sneaking into Bamburgh Castle's staterooms - and they're ready to tell a few tales of their own.

The menagerie of sculptures is being installed throughout the Northumberland castle ahead of a brand new trail opening this weekend.

Following a trail through the castle's staterooms, Tails & Tales brings well-known sayings to life through a series of whimsical characters. From early birds to slow-and-steady snails, each sculpture represents a familiar phrase encouraging visitors to guess the saying behind each design.

Inspired by Bamburgh Castle's long association with curiosity, invention and the natural world, Tails & Tales draws on the legacy of William George Armstrong, later Lord Armstrong, the Victorian innovator who bought Bamburgh Castle in 1894. A lover of animals and nature, Armstrong's fascination with the natural world went on to shape his life and work.

The sculptures are created by Northumbrian artist Mandy Bryson. Working in clay, mixed media and textiles, Bryson brings character and personality to each creature. Her works are inspired by traditional sayings, childhood memories and a lifelong love of wildlife. Her creations invites visitors to slow down, look again and rediscover the stories hidden in everyday language.

Tails & Tales has been designed for everyone to enjoy. Alongside the main trail, a 'Creature Quest' encourages visitors to spot playful details and unexpected objects as they explore the castle's rooms and passageways.

Francis Watson-Armstrong, owner of Bamburgh Castle, said:
“Bamburgh Castle has always been a place full of stories and surprises. It's the perfect setting for Tails & Tales, which celebrates our affection for animals, imagination and storytelling.

“Mandy's cast of wonderfully quirky creatures is extraordinary. I'm sure they'll bring a smile to people's faces and, like us, visitors will have fun guessing the sayings behind the characters.”

Tails & Tales opens at Bamburgh Castle this Saturday, February 14, when the castle reopens daily from 10am. The trail runs until October. Entry is included with general castle admission.