A Cumbrian historic castle and estate is hoping to 'enchant' visitors and inspire them to take a greater interest in the natural world with the development of a new eco-themed attraction.

Muncaster Castle, near Ravenglass, announced that planning permission to improve the front and entrance of their new eco barn had been approved.

On top of the resources and information that will be on offer at the new eco barn, the gable end of the building already features its very own bug hotel, called ‘Bugingham Palace’.

“The eco barn is hopefully an opportunity for us to open visitors' eyes to what is going on here and the wonderful nature and wildlife that surrounds us,” said Peter Frost-Pennington of Muncaster Castle.

“It will be an ever-changing exhibition of what we can all do to help wildlife and the environment.

“Many people have gardens and, even if you don’t have a garden, there’s loads of things you can do on your windowsill to attract pollinating insects.”

The eco barn was formerly an entrance into Muncaster Castle’s owl centre before being left unoccupied.

Peter said he was looking forward to seeing the building being given a new lease of life as an educational centre, and that he hopes to see it open in the summer.

He added: “We realised it's a beautiful building and that we need to enhance it.

“It's a way that we can let people interact more and see what we’re doing.”

He added: “It’s never-ending at Muncaster.

“It’s always a work in progress and we’re always striving to do new things.”

For more information, visit muncaster.co.uk