The voice of York-born Oscar winner Dame Judi Dench took on a new role today when it launched a major campaign to attract visitors by train.

Following in the footsteps of personalities such as Magnus Magnusson, whose commentary guides visitors around the passages of the Jorvik Viking Centre, Dame Judi's soothing tones can now be heard at 15th Century Barley Hall where she takes visitors on a historical trip as the wife of a the wealthy owner from 500 years ago.

Medieval musicians and a stilt-walker were also performing at the famous landmark to launch Northern Spirit's biggest summer campaign which will see a range of two-for-one offers intended to tempt tourists to the city.

Medieval Jewels Set in York, which include the Micklegate Bar Museum, the Minster's Foundations and Treasury Museum and the Merchant Adventurer's Hall, will be among the city's historic points of interest to be promoted in the offer.

Paul Davison, Northern Spirit managing director, said: "This is another campaign showcasing York for people right across the country.

"Until now there has been no comprehensive bid to make people aware of the whole package of medieval marvels.

"We are putting that right with posters across the north and thousands of leaflets to show the gems on offer." Added to the host of museums and places of historic interest, tourists will as usual be able to take in the free treasures of York including Shambles, Guildhall and bar walls.

Leaflets will be on display at 100 stations in the region served by Northern Spirit and the campaign will run until the end of September.

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