VISITORS taking a drive through the region's countryside will now be able to stop off at a treasured stately home - until now kept secret to most behind locked gates.

Sporting England's oldest private cricket ground and a vaulted tapestry hall, Hovingham Hall, located between Helmsley and Malton, in North Yorkshire, is opening for the first time to the public next month.

Visitors will be guided through the grand house, built by Thomas Worsley between 1750 and 1770, into a variety of ornate rooms, and lavish grounds with yew trees more than 300 years old. They will be able to soak up its atmosphere while learning about its history.

William and Marie-Noelle Worsley moved into the hall last year with their three children after his parents, Sir Marcus and Lady Worsley, moved into another house on the estate. They made the decision to open the hall to the public.

"Hopefully, we will make some money, of course," said Mr Worsley. "But it's also because people are interested. They like to see round houses like this."

Mr Worsley admits the hall doesn't offer the sort of attractions that lure enthusiasts to the bigger stately homes.

"We are not a theme park, we are a family home," he said.

One item that is bound to spark interest, however, is a family portrait of a young Katharine Worsley, now the Duchess of Kent, who grew up in Hovingham.

The hall was the scene of a lavish wedding reception, attended by many of the crowned heads of Europe, following her marriage to the Duke of Kent in 1961.

Only open to pre-booked parties in the past, it will be open daily (except Sundays) from Monday until July 4, 2pm to 5pm. Admission costs will be £5 for adults, £3 for children under 16 and free for the under-fives. For more information call (01653) 628771.