A new stairway at a North Yorkshire landmark is enticing history lovers with views not seen since the 17th century.

Visitors to Scarborough Castle can now survey the 850-year-old fortress not seen since Oliver Cromwell's artillery reduced part of the monument to ruins.

A new oak staircase and cut-away floor has been installed in the castle's keep giving access to the level of the Great Hall, where guests once wined and dined.The £65,000 project is part of a £250,000 investment in the castle this year by English Heritage and the Castle Pride initiative.

Using the route of the original medieval staircase, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the North Bay through the open west wall.

It was a victim of the 1645 Civil War siege when the Royalist garrison was attacked by the Parliamentarians.

Castle custodian Bill Kneale said: "The castle is a major landmark and we want to ensure its future as a thriving tourist attraction.

"Visitors will be able to get a new perspective on the monument and get a better feel for its history.

"We plan to open up another access point on the curtain wall giving views over the town and the South Bay area."

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