Norwich Castle's historic keep has officially reopened its doors after a transformative £13.5 million renovation, bringing new life to one of East Anglia's most treasured landmarks.
The ambitious project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and local councils, has revitalised the 900-year-old Norman castle, enhancing both its structural integrity and visitor experience.
A Journey Through Medieval England
Visitors can now explore newly accessible areas of the keep, including the original Norman bridge – the only surviving example of its kind in England. Innovative displays and interactive exhibits transport guests back to the castle's heyday as a royal palace and later as a prison.
Key Improvements Include:
- State-of-the-art climate control to protect fragile artefacts
- Improved accessibility with new lifts and walkways
- Enhanced interpretation of the castle's complex history
- Restoration of original architectural features
Dr. John Alban, project curator, describes the renovation as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine how we present this magnificent piece of our national heritage."
What Visitors Can Expect
The revamped keep features:
- A dramatic new entrance at ground level
- Immersive digital projections recreating medieval scenes
- Hands-on exhibits allowing visitors to handle replica artefacts
- Breathtaking views from the castle battlements
Special events and guided tours will run throughout the summer, including knight training for children and medieval craft workshops.
Norwich Castle remains one of the city's top attractions, drawing history enthusiasts from across the UK. With these significant improvements, it's set to welcome even more visitors eager to experience England's medieval past in a fresh, engaging way.
