IT was a case of stepping back in time to celebrate an historic venue’s 500th birthday.

Otley Hall marked the milestone with a weekend filled with Tudor-themed activities.

Visitors were entertained by Tudor dancing, re-enactments featuring characters such as an executioner and doctor, a Tudor archer, tours of Otley Hall and authentic games from the period as well as a non-Tudor bouncy castle for children.

Owners Catherine and Ian Beaumont dressed as Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII to entertain the crowds who flocked to the celebration.

Mrs Beaumont said: “The weekend was a great success with around 450 people over the two days.

“People seemed to really enjoy themselves and the atmosphere in celebrating 500 years of Otley Hall.

“Visitors particularly enjoyed the glazier who was making a new window for us with our named scratched into it.”

Mrs Beaumont also said ten Tudor characters welcomed guests to the celebration who also enjoyed a traditional Tudor feast.

“We are very grateful to all the volunteers who helped out with the cooking and treasure hunt,” she added.

Money raised from the weekend will be used to restore the gable end of Otley Hall which has fallen into disrepair.