A line up of stars, activities to occupy every age group and the largest ever civil war re-enactment is set to make it a busy year in the vale.

The Duchess of Rutland said: "We've lived here for eight years now and this is the most exciting year yet and with the tree conservation project we will be able to give something back to the environment."

The events are kick-started by the Sealed Knot giving Civil War military demonstrations in the grounds of the castle over the Easter weekend, Saturday, March 22 to Monday 24.

It will include the traditional Easter egg hunt.

The group returns on May 11 and then again on, Saturday and Sunday August, 24 and 25 for its 40th anniversary.

It will be the largest battle re-enactment in England and will include an army of more than 1,500, supported by 35 cavalry and dozens of period artillery.

Belvoir Castle has teamed up with concert promoter Chris Moreno to put on a series of open air concerts called Midsummer Magic.

It starts with girlband Sugababes on Saturday, June 21, and opera diva Katherine Jenkins with the National Symphony Orchestra on the Sunday.

On Saturday, August 16, popstars McFly will be entertaining crowds with the series rounded off by an evening with tribute bands Bootleg Beatles and Bjorn Again on the Sunday.

All the concerts, except McFly, are followed by a fireworks display.

The promoter's spokesman said: "We are calling this the first annual series because we hope to do it every year. So why not come down with a bottle of champagne or some beer and food and enjoy a picnic."

For more information visit www.midsummermagic.co.uk


In September, to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Duke's vintage Renault car, he will be driving down to the factory in Paris.


He will be followed closely by a team of mechanics to keep him on the road.


Some time in Autumn, the film The Young Victoria, which was partly made at Belvoir Castle, will be released.


To celebrate, the castle and grounds will host a series of events displaying art depicting the Queen during her many visits to the area.


Throughout the year, the Duchess is running her conservation project with the Forestry Commission and TreeTwist.


The plan is to regenerate Fir Holt and Lime Avenue, part of woodland on the estate which was cut down to make Mosquito planes in the Second World War.


People can buy a key fob from the castle representing a tree which will be planted in the wood.


And an enchanted garden is being developed by TV designer Ivan Hicks.


A large silver ring, symbolising the circle of life, as well as a series of cobwebs through the wood to persuade people to look up into the trees.


For more information on any of the events visit www.belvoircastle.com