$5,000 for a Trip to Neverland

Owners of stately homes who are down on their uppers have traditionally opened their doors to the public to cover the costs of running their rambling estates.

The latest member of an aristocracy to follow their example is Michael Jackson, who this week announced that visitors will be able to spend a day at his California ranch, Neverland.

The main difference between Neverland and a British stately home will be the price. The cost for two people to spend a day on the estate will be $5,000 (£3,300).

For their money, however, the 500 invited guests will receive much more. They will be entertained by magicians, and given dinner and a "goodie bag" containing a painting by Brazilian artist Romero Britto.

The open house is to be a one-off event taking place on September 13.

The 1,000 hectare (2,600 acre) ranch has its own amusement park, so guests will be able to enjoy themselves on the bumper cars and ferris wheel if the magicians fail to entertain.

One fifth of the money raised, $250,000, will be split between three charities: the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which arranges for sick children to have their wishes come true; Oneness, which campaigns against racism through art and music; and E Ai Como E Que Fica, a Brazilian organisation that looks after poor children in Rio de Janeiro.

The remaining money will go to pay for the cost of the event, said Jackson's publicist.

Forbes Magazine estimated Jackson's worth at $200m last year but said he had incurred large debts.