Hall takes on a nautical air

Staff at Brodsworth Hall, near Doncaster, have been inspired to host the activities by a painting they recently unveiled, which shows a Dutch vessel capturing the English flagship in 1667.

The picture, by Ludolf Backhuysen, is one of the hall's most prized possessions and shows the Royal Charles being escorted back to the Netherlands.

Youngsters visiting the hall between Tuesday and Friday next week will be encouraged to learn more about the sailors involved and dress as pirates and other seafaring characters.

The activities will be run by specialist English Heritage workers. Through the week, members of Brodsworth staff will also be getting into the spirit, wearing pirate costumes as they go about their day-to-day jobs.

For more details on entry costs and other activities at Brodsworth, call 01302 722598.