JANE Austen's Pride and Prejudice arrives at Thirlestane Castle this weekend.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company will perform an open-air performance of the classic novel on the front lawn with the fairytale castle as a backdrop.

On Sunday summer evening, take a step back in time to meet Elizabeth Bennet, Jane Austen's most loveable heroine.

When Elizabeth meets the rude and abrupt Mr Darcy, she loathes him at first sight.

But is there more to him than meets the eye? Brought to life by award winning writer Laura Tuner, this brand-new adaptation celebrates the 200th Anniversary of Jane Austen’s death, and promises to be the most splendid evening of the summer.

After all, it is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.

Edward Maitland-Carew told the Border Telegraph: “The castle has a truly magnificent façade and I couldn’t think of any better backdrop for a summer’s evening of theatre.

"Chapterhouse Theatre Company has a long history of putting on these productions and will entertain with a truly stunning show.”

Pre-prepared picnics can be purchased in advance for £15 per person by contacting the castle at enquiries@thirlestanecastle.co.uk or by ringing 01578 722430.

They include mouth-watering items such as Coronation Chicken with Couscous Salad and Eton Mess among a number of other culinary delights. There will also be a small bar on the night to purchase soft drinks, tea/coffee and alcoholic drinks.

Guests can also bring their own refreshments.

Tickets are still available at www.borderevents.com or they can be purchased on the door priced at £14 for adults, £8 for children, or £40 for a family (two adults and two children).

The gates will open at 5pm to allow the audience to find the perfect spot on the castle lawn and begin their picnics before the performance starts at 6pm.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company returns to Thirlestane Castle on July 12 for a special family-friendly production of The Wind in the Willows.

Tickets for this performance are on sale now at www.borderevents.com.