THE sights and sounds of swords clashing and muskets firing brought to life the English Civil War at Sizergh Castle.

Around 2,000 people, including many young children, visited the 647-hectare estate over the weekend to marvel at the stunning range of activities put on by the National Trust.

Titled Royals and Roundheads, it saw both sides battle it out for King, or Parliament.

It also took a closer look at army life, with musket drills, feeding the troops and the tools of the Apothecary’s trade.

Street theatre entertained the troops and their supporters, while displays of archery, poetry and music added to the atmosphere.

Georgina Gates, Sizergh’s house and collections manager, said: "The weather did not stop us being joined by lots of families for a really fun event. Most staff were in costume which has been quite a spectacle.

"As soon as you bring it to life and get the children involved they really enjoy themselves.

"It is a nice way to get across the social aspect of the history as well as the bigger picture."

Sizergh’s Strickland family, who have lived in the house for 800 years, were fiercely loyal to the King Charles.

Alongside many of the noble families of northern England, they were against the merchants and traders of the south, led by Oliver Cromwell.

Roundhead was the name given to the supporters of the Parliament of England during the 17th Century war.

Also known as Parliamentarians, they fought against Charles I of England and his supporters.

A new house tour told the story of the Strickland’s links with the Stuart Royal family and uncovered the stories behind some of Sizergh’s Royal treasures, including the rare Missal belonging to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s brother, the Cardinal Duke of York.

A missal is a book which contains all the texts and music needed by a priest to celebrate Mass and is a treasured possession of the Catholic family.