History fans can dress up as a puritan farmer, or cavalier soldier, and children can enjoy 17th century games and activities at a new exhibition in the Granary building.

The season kicks off with an activity session today on how to become a Civil War soldier - running every Wednesday throughout the school holidays - and youngsters can also examine jewellery and dresses.

The museum is free entry, and packed inside with numerous finds from the two Civil War battles fought at Newbury.

The Second Battle of Newbury took place around Speen and Donnington in October 1644. Cromwell had a perfect chance to crush the King's army and even capture Charles I, but his surprise flank attack did not work, and the Cavaliers stood firm against heavy gunfire which destroyed half of Donnington Castle.

The museum is open 10am to 5pm weekdays, and until 4.30pm on Saturdays. It's closed on Sunday.