FIFTY years have passed since Mount Grace Priory was first opened to the public - and to celebrate staff have returned to those unsophisticated times, with 1950s-style ticket machines.

The 600-year-old Carthusian monastery, near Northallerton, was once inhabited by monks who lived in their own cells.

But now it is one of the most popular English Heritage sites in the region, and is visited by tens of thousands every year.

It opened up to tourists in 1953 when it was taken over by the then Ministry of Public Buildings and Works.

Previously, it was owned by the wealthy Lowthian Bell family, but handed over to the National Trust in lieu of death duties and subsequently placed in the care of the ministry, itself the forerunner of English Heritage.

Head custodian Becky Wright, said: "When the priory was first opened to the public in the post-war austerity years, facilities were very different.

"There was no shop or visitor area and the custodian roved the grounds with a bus conductor-like ticket machine to collect fees.

"Now we are able to provide facilities which give visitors a greater insight and understanding of the Priory's rich history, but fortunately the tranquillity of the ruins remains the same."

Mount Grace Priory is one of the 120 English Heritage sites where those under 19, accompanied by an English Heritage member, can go in free of charge.

The priory is off the A19 and opens from 10am to 6pm daily.