COSTUMED characters came to life as part of a day of fun at a country estate.

On Wednesday, June 22, visitors to the Brockhampton estate, near Bromyard, were transported back to the 15th century as part of the National Trust’s ‘Encounters’ project.

Re-enactors got into character to each tell the story of a person who lived and worked at the manor, together spanning more than 500 years of Brockhampton’s development, from its medieval origins up until its last private tenants in latter 20th century.

Together the characters portrayed Brockhampton’s history over the centuries and allowed visitors to get hands on and up close with a wide range of objects, possessions and activities.

For more than 65 years, only four rooms of the idyllic manor house were accessible to visitors. But in July 2014, the remaining six previously unseen rooms were opened and redefined for guests to explore.

That meant characters from a range of eras were brought to life in every room in the estate.

Conservation and engagement manager, Kate Oakley, said: “We have brought these key characters to life thanks to our amazing volunteers.

"Their involvement, willingness to adapt and inspire our guests has created a more engaging visitor experience and allowed us to emphasise key parts of our story in a dynamic way.”

Visitors were able to meet notable characters, including medieval owner and builder of the manor house, Philip Dumbleton, and admire his sword and unfamiliar clothes.

Guests also chatted with John Chessell Buckler, the eminent Victorian architect who carried out extensive restoration work and helped reveal the structure of the manor visible today.

They also got involved with helping Alice Dennett, the gamekeeper’s wife, with her chores; such as polishing utensils, making bread and folding the washing.

Close by, Marian Freegard, wife of Brockhampton’s last tenant farmer, was in her 1950s sitting room where visitors could investigate household appliances and articles of her time.

Visitors met Bartholomew Barneby, a prosperous 18th century owner who entertained them with his life story, intriguing topical facts and his curious Georgian objects. Overall, the day was a huge success.

Brockhampton Estate is open seven-days-a-week until November, from 11am to 5pm. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/brockhampton-estate.