In pictures: Beningbrough Hall preserved via £2.3m revamp

Beningbrough Hall was originally built in 1716 by wealthy Yorkshire landowner John Bourchier

A £2.3m refurbishment project has been "crucial" in preserving one of the most remarkable baroque houses in England, its owners have said.

The ground floor of Beningbrough Hall, near York, is to reopen on 1 July after nearly two years of closure.

National Trust, which runs the property, said it had been refitted with new lighting and wiring, with repairs to the ceiling and staircase.

The art gallery is due to reopen later for a new exhibition in September.

The staircase and ceiling have been repaired as part of the upgrade

Repairs have also been made to the decaying timber, plasterwork and stonework, the trust says

Originally built in 1716 by wealthy landowner John Bourchier, the 18th Century hall of the building was a family home before it was used to accommodate aircrews during World War Two.

The trust said it was "one of the most remarkable baroque houses in England with richly carved and finished interiors", which was inspired by Bourchier's visit to Italy.

Inspiration for the baroque-style mansion had come from John Bourchier's tour of Italy

Final repairs to the building are expected to be completed end of July

Alexa Buffey, collections and house manager, said: "We're incredibly excited to welcome visitors back into the hall.

"The recent work has been crucial in preserving the building for future generations and National Trust supporters to enjoy.

"We can't wait to show off its stunning interiors once more."

National Trust hopes the investment will preserve the hall for "future generations"

Final repairs on the north front steps are expected to be completed by the end of July, before an exhibition showcasing the work of 18th Century Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi opens on 16 September.

Much of the funding for the work had come from Ian Reddihough, who left the trust "a generous gift" in his will following his death, the trust said.

The rest of the hall is expected to open later in the year