The Snail and the Whale will be among the characters taking to the stage at a Kent castle this year as part of a summer of open air theatre.

Hever Castle's outdoor Festival Theatre programme runs from May 25 to August 26 and takes place in the grounds of the tourist attraction.

All the performances and events can be enjoyed with a picnic or afternoon tea on the lawn overlooking the castle while the outdoor theatre space offers cover from the elements in the event of bad weather.

Family festival entertainment in the programme this year includes the Tall Stories’ musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler’s much-loved children’s picture book The Snail and the Whale which takes place on Tuesday, August 7 with two performances.

There is also a visit by Immersion Theatre and its musical production of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan while Moon on a Stick bring a sprinkling of panto to summer with their production of Little Red Riding Hood.

Multi award-winning musical comedian Jay Foreman will also be performing his selection of charmingly sick songs, stories and poems in his Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children on Thursday, August 23 at 2.30pm.

For a full run down of the Festival Theatre programme or to book your tickets visit www.heverfestival.co.uk, alternatively the box office is open Monday to Friday 9.30am until 5pm and can be contacted on 01732 866114.