VISITORS to a stately home took a step back in time at the weekend with the help of costumed characters.

Staff at Beningbrough Hall, near York, dressed in Victorian and Georgian costumes for events in the laundry and gardens.

There were also helpers displaying equipment from the Second World War and answering visitors' questions.

Jacquelyn Frith, from The National Trust, which owns the hall, said: "We have been trying to involve our visitors in the three main periods of the property's history by having live costumed interpretation.

"Families have also been able to dress up.

"It has been a great Bank Holiday for all ages."