Almost 2,000 people descended on Framlingham Castle today for its big three-day medieval life event and Easter hunt.

East Anglian Daily Times: Benjamin Attelsey at the event. Picture: GREGG BROWNBenjamin Attelsey at the event. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Despite the gloomy weather, excited youngsters took to the castle to find a medieval world had come alive before them.

East Anglian Daily Times: The event drew in a big crowd at Framlingham Castle. Picture: GREGG BROWNThe event drew in a big crowd at Framlingham Castle. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Knights and ladies of the court were on hand to greet visitors whilst cooks prepared medieval recipes.

East Anglian Daily Times: One of the many reenactors at the event. Picture: GREGG BROWNOne of the many reenactors at the event. Picture: GREGG BROWN

A medieval archer was also on hand to show visitors how to make a longbow.

East Anglian Daily Times: Reenactors give a taste of history at the Medieval Life event at Framlingham Castle. Picture: GREGG BROWNReenactors give a taste of history at the Medieval Life event at Framlingham Castle. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Georgina Hallett, assistant events manager at English Heritage, said: “If you’re looking for a day out with a difference this Easter weekend, come along to Framlingham Castle and be transported back in time to the 14th century. “Families can experience what life would have been like in medieval England, from the food ate, the rules they lived by and their skills in battle.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Framlingham Castle manager Kirstie Horne. Picture: GREGG BROWNFramlingham Castle manager Kirstie Horne. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Over at Audley End House and Gardens in Essex children were taking to the grounds for the Easter hunt, discovering clues around the site to earn a shiny chocolate coin.

East Anglian Daily Times: A reenactor gives a taste of history at the Medieval Life event at Framlingham Castle. Pictured is Kathryn Williams. Picture: GREGG BROWNA reenactor gives a taste of history at the Medieval Life event at Framlingham Castle. Pictured is Kathryn Williams. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Children were also tasked to find a special clue hidden at the castle to win a unique Easter egg designed by illustrator Grahame Baker-Smith.

Meanwhile reenactment performers took to the castle’s kitchens, preparing a host of delicious Victorian Easter treats - including hot cross buns and Easter Simnel cake.

Katy Blows, property supervisor at the house, said: “It has been a great day, apart from the weather.

“Everyone had a brilliant time. There are a lot of happy children holding onto their chocolate coins.

“People should come along and check us out this Easter weekend.”