A west Cumbrian historic castle - and one of the few left in the country that appoints a fool - was able to welcome guests back to the upstairs of the castle for the first time since March 2020.

Muncaster Castle near Ravenglass made the decision to allow guests upstairs on Monday Jul 19 after Covid-19 restrictions were lifted.

Peter Frost-Pennington, whose family have lived at Muncaster since the 12th century, said it was "wonderful" to welcome visitors back upstairs again.

He added: "I think Tom Fool’s portrait and the ghosts in the Tapestry Room in particular were glad to have company again.

"Despite the heat outside some guests complained it was a bit chilly in that room.

"We are now looking forward to a bumper summer; guests will have the option of still enjoying a guided tour in the early afternoons or self-guide through the castle between 2.30 & 4pm each day we are open."

The Ellison and Hardman families from Leigh, and the Ross family from Barrow were among the first visitors back upstairs.

For more information, visit www.muncaster.co.uk.