A council has released further details about the celebrations to re-open one of its iconic halls.

The weekend of May 21 and 22 will see Astley Hall in Chorley reopen with a packed programme of entertainment and activities such as dancing and singing, historical reenactments, actors in period costume, food and drink stands and much more.

The entertainment will begin at 11am and will last until 4pm on Saturday May 21 in the grounds of Astley Hall with a break for the official opening of the Hall itself at 12.30pm by Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, after which, those who have purchased tickets to enter the Hall can do so from 1pm.

(Tickets will be available from the Museum Gift Shop, with last entry into the Hall an hour before closing at 5pm on Saturday).

The entertainment will then continue on Sunday May 22, with the Hall open for ticket holders from 11am until 4pm (last entry into the Hall an hour before closing).

Discounted tickets will be available for Chorley residents, but please be aware that proof of address may be required.

Deputy leader of Chorley Council, Councillor Peter Wilson, said: "We are really looking forward to the reopening of Astley Hall and welcoming visitors back to see how amazing it looks after two years of renovation work and for everyone to enjoy the entertainment over the weekend.

"Earlier in the year the decision was made to charge admission fees for entry into the Hall, to help the Hall become more sustainable, which will be implemented as it reopens.

"Tickets for entry to the Hall will be available to purchase on the day but we urge everyone not to rush at once, as there will be a range of timeslots available.

"Even without a ticket to enter the Hall itself, there'll be lots of free entertainment and activities to suit all ages within the grounds of the Hall during the opening weekend, and much of it will reflect different eras so that visitors can get an insight of the Hall's history."

The free 'Behind the Render' exhibition in the Coach House Gallery, showcasing behind the scenes details of the Hall's renovation journey, will also be open, on Saturday from 1pm - 5pm, and Sunday from 11am - 4pm.

Since 2020 the Hall has undergone an outstanding transformation, including removal of the old grey render from the front of the building to reveal original brickwork, windows at the front at the Hall have been replaced or restored, the main staircase strengthened, internal redecoration, new interpretation and work to enhance the visitor journey, plus the new Museum Gift Shop and Information Centre opened its doors in the Coach House building at the end of 2020.

After the reopening weekend, Astley Hall will be open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 11am - 4pm and Fridays and Saturdays 1pm - 5pm with tickets available from the Museum Gift Shop.

Follow the Astley Hall and Park Facebook page for updates.