A POPULAR Medieval manor house attraction opens for the season over the Easter weekend with chocolate egg treats adding to the appeal for family visitors.

The delights of Crook Hall and gardens will be revealed to the public on all four days of the Easter break, starting on Good Friday. Set in four acres of grounds near the banks of the River Wear, less than a mile from Durham city centre, Crook Hall features themed gardens and a small maze.

During the forthcoming weekend the hall's Easter bunny will be popping up round the grounds handing out chocolate eggs to young visitors. There will also be face painting and Easter egg hunts.

Ghost hunts will be staged for thrill-seekers on May 4 and 5, June 22, July 6, August 25 and September 14.

There will also be a week of old fashioned games, Playing in the Past, during Whitsun half-term week, from May 25 to 30, a display of glass sculptures throughout June, and Art in the Garden, featuring the work of North-East artists, during August.

Other events include a Giraffe Day, with novelty artist Ingrid Sylvestre on June 15, National Gardens Open Day on July 12, a guided tour on August 3, Bring a Teddy Day, on August 24, and an Apple and Pear Sunday to round off the season, on September 28.

The hall opens over the Easter weekend from Good Friday to Monday, and on Bank Holidays and Sundays in May and September, plus daily, excluding Saturdays, in June, July and August, from 1pm - 5pm.

Admission is £4 for adults, £3.50 for concessions and a family ticket is £11.50, for two adults and up to three children.

Crook Hall is off Frankland Lane, in Sidegate, Durham. Further information is available on 0191-384 8028.