A SMOKE breathing dragon and the Goblin Queen met with families as part of Hylands Park's St George's Day celebrations.
In the event's first year, children - dressed as knights and princesses - could stroke the animatronic monster and pose for pictures.
Kiriana the Dragon was on hand for three 30 minute sessions through the afternoon.
In the relative coolness of the outdoors however, two women from Elstree studios worked the dragon from the inside.
"They didn't get too hot," said visitor services co-ordinator Karen Ager.
"And I'm sorry to ruin the magic but they came in parts, they're not real."
She added: "All in all, it was a brilliant day and we couldn't have asked for any better."
The event, which included a dragon hunt trail and a court jester, sold out weeks before the day.
Due to its popularity Hylands are hoping to run it again next year and create a medieval fair for families to enjoy.
