Pikes and muskets were carried through the streets as Enfield got a taste of 17th century life.

The Rainton Pageant made its way through Enfield Town yesterday afternoon to celebrate the life of Sir Nicholas Rainton, who built Forty Hall and was made Lord Mayor of London in 1632.

People in the streets stopped to take photos as the parade passed through, which featured traditional costumes, drums and lutes, and a band of soldiers from the Civil War.

Lynne Lambert, 67, from Enfield Town, dressed as a cook for the parade. She said: “It’s good fun. It highlights what happens in the borough, and brings everyone together.

“Forty Hall has been reinvented. It’s good that people learn about the history that went on in Enfield. They did a civil war re-enactment back in July. It’s important to learn the history, and this makes it come alive.

Morris Walsh, 56, from Haringey, dressed up for the Civil War regiment. He said: “We hope to demonstrate to the people of Enfield how they lived and dressed during that time. We did it last year, which was good.

“Forty Hall is magnificent, it’s the jewel in Enfield’s crown. It’s important for people to know their history, as it gives you a pointer for the future.”

Rita Donovan, from Enfield Town, watched the parade pass through. She said: “They all looked really impressive, and the music caught your attention. The costumes were definitely eye catching.”

Victoria Sanderson, a business development manager for Enfield Borough Council, said: “It’s really nice to celebrate Forty Hall and the community and it’s a chance for people to see what happens there. People can learn the history of the place.”