Beat the bank holiday boredom this weekend when the Museum of Lancashire in Preston throws open its doors for free.

The place will be a hive of activity with a Roman legionnaire cooking ancient recipes and mechanical monsters thundering through the halls in celebration of the start of Museums and Galleries Month.

The museum, located on Stanley Street, is offering free entry on Saturday and Sunday to give people a flavour of the wealth of interest it has to offer them.

As well as three superb exhibitions, visitors will be able to take part in a host of family friendly crafts and activities.

A real draw is the Manic Mechanics exhibition, an intriguing, hands-on collection of moving metal sculptures including an interactive 6 metre long submarine and an awe inspiring half man-half bull Centaur.

A wide range of events are also on offer. On Saturday families can take on the challenge of building a toy from k'nex.

Keeping with the mechanical theme of Manic Mechanics, visitors can have a go at making their own motor-powered mechanical wire monsters.

Anyone who's ever wondered what the Romans had for lunch can find out with the museum's resident Roman legionnaire who will be making authentic recipes including pear and wine custard.

While he's busy in the kitchen, visitors can try on his armour.

For those in search of a change of pace, the museum features three fascinating galleries on Lancashire's military history as well as archaeology and local history displays.

County Councillor Chris Cheetham, Cabinet member for Adult and Community Services, said: "There's more to the Museum of Lancashire than artefacts in glass cases and this weekend offers a great chance to get involved in some of the fun and educational activities on offer."

The Museum of Lancashire is offering free entry from 10.30am to 5.00pm on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 April. There is a charge for some events.