IT survived the Black Death, York’s Civil War siege and Second World War bombing raids, now Barley Hall is preparing to mark its 650th anniversary this weekend.

York Archaeological Trust, owners of York’s restored medieval town house, is inviting visitors to experience two days of dance, plays and medieval games tomorrow and on Saturday to mark the anniversary.

Activities will include a specially commissioned dance interpretation of the history of Barley Hall – parts of which date back to 1360 – which will be followed by a candlelit supper and musical entertainment.

Barley Hall was bought by the trust in 1987, having been “rediscovered” in 1984. Work to restore it to its former glory began in 1990, furnishing and equipping it as it might have appeared in 1483, when the Snawsell family lived there and Richard III was King of England. Since 1993, Barley Hall has been open to the public as a living history museum and has become a popular venue for weddings and corporate hospitality.

For more details, visit barleyhall.org.uk or phone 01904 615505 to book a place at one of the weekend’s performances.