HISTORY lovers have been enjoying a trip back in time to the 1650s for a Bank Holiday event at Worcester's popular Commandery museum.

Visitors have been flocking to the Sidbury-based museum to experience life as a civilian during the Battle of Worcester.

The event began yesterday, (August 27), and was set to finish at 5pm tomorrow, (August 29).

Various characters have been dressing in period customer to welcome visitors, including playing the roles of civilians, a vicar, surgeon, and a Royalist City Official.

A living history encampment has been a highlight for many museum visitors as it reveals many aspects of civilian life during the turbulent period, including 17th century cooking and traditional children's games.

Young recruits were even able to be fitted for battle, and join in the military exercises.

Despite poor weather at times, visitors were still able to enjoy picnics in the Commandery's gardens.

Charlie Fothergill, Worcester Commandery's marketing manager, said: "We have held Battle of Worcester events before but this year we are focusing on the people involved and their stories.

"The museum has been packed.

"The musket firing displays have been really busy.

"The site becomes very atmospheric, the characters really do bring history to life."

Entry to the museum is free to Commandery card holders and Worcester City residents, if they produce a Worcester City Council tax bill on arrival.

Otherwise entry costs £5.50 for adults, £2.50 for children, and a family ticket costs £13.

For more details visit museumsworcestershire.org.uk.