VISITORS will be able to meet William Shakespeare when an historic hall holds its first Elizabethan fun day in its grounds.

An actor dressed as the Bard will be roaming the grounds of Washington Old Hall, Washington Village, on Sunday, July 8.

The National Trust property dates from the 17th Century and incorporates part of the original 12th Century home of US President George Washington's ancestors.

Entertainment on the day will include performances of Elizabethan music by the Belsay Consort, a costumed recorder ensemble, falconry display and combat enactment by the Sealed Knot Society.

Unusual gifts, including hand-made soaps, cheeses, jewellery and wrought-iron work, will also be on sale.

Admission to the event, which will be held in the grounds, is free.

People wanting to look inside the hall will have to pay the standard admission charges of £2.80 for adults, £1.40 for children, or £7 for a family ticket