A CASTLE near Darlington is planning on hosting its first ever medieval banquet – and the more daring visitors will be able to explore the dungeon.

Despite parts of Walworth Castle Hotel dating back to the 12th century, the venue has never held its own medieval banquet.

The first ever event of its kind is to be held in the Cardinals' court, the castle's courtyard, on Friday, April 20.

Medieval music will be provided by specialist minstrels Paul Leigh and Gill Page, who are collectively known as Trouvere, and are based in Richmond.

The pair plays a wide range of instruments including harp, flutes, bagpipes, trumpet and hurdy gurdy, a medieval string instrument.

Hotel director Rachel Swain said: "We want the evening to be as authentic as possible and there will also be the opportunity to explore the dungeon, whilst enjoying a glass of ale or mead.

"During the evening Trouvere will be playing medieval music while guests tuck into a banquet fit for a kind.

"There will also be storytelling, games and dancing.

"The evening certainly promises to be one to remember and it will go down in Walworth Castle's history as the first ever medieval banquet."

Fellow hotel director Chris Swain said that if the evening proved popular, it was hoped it would become a regular part of the castle's calendar of events.

Walworth is one of the few Grade 1 listed buildings in the Darlington area.

Tickets for the medieval banquet are £35 and are available by calling 01325-485470 or by emailing enquiries@walworthcastle.co.uk