The history of Lacock Abbey is being re-told through the memories of its last owner, giving a glimpse into the building’s 800-year history.

A National Trust scheme called Moments and Memories is giving the abbey a new lease of life, bringing contemporary displays while also telling tales of years gone by.

The story of Lacock Abbey is told through the words of Matilda Talbot, the last owner of the abbey, who donated it to the National Trust in 1944.

Today she has become a virtual guide for visitors.

Karen Bolger, the visitors services manager at Lacock Abbey, said: “Matilda was passionate about sharing Lacock, its characters and stories with others.

“Her book, My Life And Lacock Abbey, not only captures her own memories and experiences here, but creates an impression of how her ancestors might have lived during their residencies.”

Miss Talbot’s grandfather was the photographic pioneer William Henry Fox Talbot, who is heavily represented in the project.

The building’s south gallery is now set up as it would have been when he and his family experimented, played and entertained there.

There are also many interactive elements for visitors, including jigsaws, games and Victorian animation with Zoetropes and a piano.

Quotes from Miss Talbot are also scattered around the building, waiting to be discovered.

Mrs Bolder said: “Finding her quotes can be a bit of a treasure hunt. Some are projected onto walls, another is seen under a microscope or even written on to oven gloves.”

The National Trust’s project also lets visitors explore medieval life in the abbey. They have the opportunity to discover the hoarded treasures of a Tudor courtier, William Sharington.

People can also follow the steps at a 1920s-style tea dance, using a neon-lit dancefloor.

The abbey rooms are open daily, excluding Tuesdays, between 11am and 4.30pm, until October 31. More information at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Lacock.