A LECTURE intends to take visitors back in time to picture what some of Lancashire's finest country houses looked like more than a century ago.

The lecture on Saturday, April 28, from 2pm to 4pm, in Bolton Central Library's Lecture Theatre will feature guest speaker Steven Sartin, keeper of the Judges' Lodgings, Lancaster.

He will examine the Halls of Lancashire seen through a series of rare photographs taken in 1882.

Among the more familiar halls will be local attractions, Smithills Hall, Hall i'th' Wood, Houghton Tower, Turton Tower and Astley Hall.

The lecture, in memory of eminent local historian Marie Mitchell, will discuss how changing tastes have seen the halls changed over the years, in addition, to the restoration and demolition work carried out.

Admission is free with the event supported by the Friends of Bolton Museum and Art Gallery.