FROM giant insects and hands-on bug sessions to creepy crawly workshops and bug-themed films, Longleat is set to be overrun by all things insectile this Easter (April 8).

Marvellous Monsters, which runs until October 29, celebrates the world of insects and aims to highlight the softer side of bugs and the vital role they play in keeping our planet alive.

Starting this Easter the attraction will be overrun with a menagerie of massive, moving bugs and insects with more than a dozen animatronic creepy-crawlies dotted around the estate.

Insect-themed activities including live entertainment, historical exhibitions and more will be taking place throughout the main season.

Longleat’s indoor events venue, the Longhouse, has also been transformed into an interactive zone dedicated to the praying mantis family.

“Marvellous Monsters is one of the most ambitious exhibitions we have staged here,” said Longleat’s Steve Mytton.

“All the animatronic insects are based on real life bugs and we have just scaled them up to be the size of cars and vans.

“Our aim is to highlight how incredible these creatures really are and to try and dispel some of the myths and misunderstandings surrounding them.

“Bugs and insects play a crucial role in the survival of the planet and we rely on them in many surprising ways, hopefully ‘Marvellous Monsters’ will help to change some people from bug haters to love bugs.”

A reaction wall will allow people to test the speed of their reactions and a series of microscopes will provide ultra close-up encounters with fascinating creatures.

Visitors will also be able to watch special daily bug shows and enjoy hands-on encounters with a variety of living insects throughout the Easter holidays.

For full information go to www.longleat.co.uk/events.