House of Cards fans had a nice surprise when Netflix accidentally premiered the third season of the show TWO WEEKS early.

Season three of the hit political drama was meant to be shown on 27 February but was accidentally made available to stream yesterday (11 February).

The episodes have since been taken down, with a “technical glitch” blamed for the error.

Luckily, makers of the show have kept their sense of humour over the mishap.

A post on the official House of Cards Twitter account read: "This is Washington. There's always a leak. All 13 episodes will launch February 27."

This is Washington. There's always a leak. All 13 episodes will launch February 27.

— House of Cards (@HouseofCards) February 11, 2015

A Netflix spokesperson told the press: "Due to a technical glitch, some Underwood fans got a sneak peek. He'll be back on Netflix on Feb 27. #no spoilers."