A HISTORIC hall will reopen next month after a winter of deep cleaning and essential repairs.

The new season at East Riddlesden Hall begins on Saturday, February 10, when the 17th-century National Trust property opens its doors for half-term.

And families are invited to join a trust team planting willow shoots on the lower field.

There will be drop-in planting sessions between 10.30am and 12.30pm on February 12 and 13.

The activity follows the success of a similar project last February, when shoots were planted and subsequently weaved into a children's tunnel by the hall's head gardener, Jill Saunders.

This year's shoots will be woven to create a 'green igloo' at the end of the tunnel.

Claire Humphris, the hall's visitor experience manager, said: "The igloo will be a fantastic addition to the popular tunnel, providing a perfect leafy den and shady play area for children to enjoy.

"We'd love as many families as possible to come along to the sessions and get closer to nature – and then return in the summer to see the results of their hard work."

Other activities will include a seasonal trail and creating willow bird feeders.

On February 13, there will be a half-hour gingerbread-making session, starting at 11.30am.

Also, the shop and tearoom will be open.

The hall is open from February 10 to 15 and then at weekends until March 18.

For more details, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/east-riddlesden-hall or call 01535 607075.