WADDESDON Manor had almost 50,000 more visitors during its Christmas season than it did the previous year.

During November and December, the National Trust property welcomed 122,183 visitors to the grounds and house, compared to 72,659 in 2012.

Organisers had optimistically budgeted for an extra 20,000 visitors, so were overwhelmed with the numbers.

The Bruce Munro Winter Light trail was a success, with positive feedback and lots repeat visits. The Christmas Food Market was also successful and the Austrian Trail in the House sold out on almost every single day.

Organisers said the 15 late night openings also worked well, with a particular influx of visitors in the afternoon around 5 to 6pm to walk the trail.

With two months left before the end of the financial year the attraction is currently on track to break the record for the highest number of visitors to Waddesdon across the entire season, which currently stands at 380,000 from the year the woodland playground was launched.

Simon Wales, head of visitor experience, said: "None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary effort of every single member of the staff and volunteer team - a big thank you to everyone, it was tiring and a challenge at times but definitely worth it."

Waddesdon opening times can be found at www.waddesdon.org.uk. The grounds and restaurants are open at the weekends only during January, February and March, besides February 15 to 23, when it is Knights' and Princesses' week for half term.

At Hughenden Manor from February 15 to 23, children can create a crest from 11am to 4pm. And Cliveden will be open again for National Trust visitors on the 15 with an activity day on the 19. Go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more details.