THE lives of soldiers and civilians from more than three centuries ago were brought to life at the weekend.

York Castle Museum was under siege over the bank holiday to relive the turbulent times in 1663 when the city was at war.

Museum visitors were able to experience the lives of soldiers, watch weapons demonstrations, and learn about authentic armour from the Civil War period.

As well as laying siege to the museum, the Sir Thomas Glemhams Regiment of the Sealed Knot re-enactment group also set up camp in the grounds of the Raindale Mill area of the museum.

Alongside the artillery and drill displays, the group also taught visitors about 17th Century cooking.

Keith Matthews, curator of military history at the museum, said: "The re-enactors have proved to be a huge success at York Castle Museum.

"The public appreciate the added value of seeing re-enactors and the opportunity to compare their equipment with genuine items on display."