A CHILDREN'S dream castle inspired play area has officially opened in Eden - and is the largest wooden playground in the country.

The hand-built, architecturally designed wooden 'Lost Castle' in the grounds of Lowther Castle has been made from 11 miles of sustainably sourced timber.

It is the brainchild of Jim Lowther and is built in the tree canopy in a design that echoes the castle itself.s

Mr Lowther said that he wanted to create something 'remarkable' that would 'delight children and grown-ups'.

"I’m astounded at how beautiful it is, nestled high in the treetops, overlooking the woodland planted by my father," he said. "The Lost Castle captures the spirit of Lowther and it will delight generations of children visiting the castle."

"The woods at Lowther are magical and I enjoyed this enchanted place with my own children. With the creation of the Lost Castle, we are embarking on a new era and I hope to capture and share the magic of Lowther with generations of children to come."