OWNERS of a medieval manor house, about to open for the spring and summer season, believe it will prove a popular attraction this year.

Crook Hall, which dates back to 1286 as the home of landed gentry Peter del Croke, lies tucked away on the River Wear banks, little more than half-a-mile from Durham city centre.

Owners Maggie and Keith Bell are to begin their fifth season opening their home and its attractive four-acre walled gardens to the public.

The hall comes complete with its own resident White Lady ghost, plus tales of several blood-curdling episodes down the years. An added attraction this year is a garden maze, designed by former gardener Ian McKellern.

Visitors last year would have been little troubled by the fledgling maze, but it should now start to test at least young visitors following a year of hedge growth.

Mrs Bell said: "We do not intend to let it get too high as we want parents to be able to see their children are all right.

"We do not want any youngsters getting too upset about not being able to get out."

Youngsters will have plenty to look forward as at the hall, which opens on Friday to Monday, from 1pm to 5pm.

Admission for children is £3 and includes an egg hunt, led by a resident Easter bunny.

Admission for adults is £3.80, with a £9.80 family ticket for two parents and up to three children. The charges cover all activities.