VISITORS are getting the chance to see one of the region’s ancient attractions bathed in golden light.

Throughout October Fountains Abbey, the renowned Cistercian ruins near Ripon, will be illuminated well into the night.

The abbey, a Unesco World Heritage Site owned by the National Trust, will be open until 9pm each Saturday

Fountains by Floodlight has become an annual tradition for many, as family and friends will step out into the fresh autumn air and stand back to see the romantic ruins illuminated and dominating the night sky.

There will be free guided tours of the abbey and the chance to listen to live performances from local choirs and bands under the vaulted ceiling of the cellarium.

And after exploring all the sites nooks and crannies the abbey tea rooms will be open with warming drinks and hot pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, sausages, soup and veggie options too.

Visitor experience manager Jen Taylor said: “Autumn floodlighting really does show this World Heritage Site in a whole new light.

“The atmosphere is truly magical and it highlights beautiful features of the abbey that usually go unnoticed - it’s fantastic to see visitor’s reactions to the stunning silhouette of the abbey.’

The event takes place from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday evenings throughout October. Last entry to the grounds is 8pm and lights are switched off at 9pm.

Admission is half price, or free for National Trust and English Heritage members.