George Macaulay Trevelyan (1876–1962) was an academic of the highest standing from a dynasty of historical writers, and was rated England's greatest historian during the 20th century.

Now his grandson, also called George, is putting on an exhibition of black and white photographs at their family home – Wallington in Northumberland.

The exhibition – on until September 5 – show George through many eras of his life, from moments in plays at Harrow School, to travels around Italy, to images of wounded soldiers in the First World War.

Lloyd Langley, house and collections manager at Wallington, said: "Following a series of photographic exhibitions in the house using Trevelyan family albums, I was put in contact with George Trevelyan, the grandson.

"He kindly gave me access to his collection which had been passed down to him.

"The majority of images have never been seen by the public before."

The Trevelyan's were well connected with great artists, poets, politicians and musicians of their day.

George Macaulay Trevelyan wrote many historical accounts while his research techniques included field walking and oral history, which were the cutting edge at the time.

Wallington is open to the public daily, except Tuesdays, from 1pm to 5pm.