Castle reopening date revealed after £27.5m revamp

Renovation work has been ongoing at Norwich Castle since the summer of 2020

The completion of a five-year renovation of a city centre castle has been confirmed with a date for its reopening to the public.

Work started at Norwich Castle in the summer of 2020 but was delayed by issues including the Covid pandemic and difficulties sourcing building materials.

Those problems contributed to the cost of the Royal Palace Reborn project rising to £27.5m, from the initial estimate of £20m.

Now Norfolk County Council has confirmed that visitors will be able to see the 900-year-old building's new look from Thursday, 7 August.

Work to the Grade I listed keep of Norwich Castle, pictured in December 2024

The project's contractor had previously told the BBC that the work would be completed by the end of 2023.

Construction was also delayed by the discovery of hidden Norman and Victorian features, alongside a need to replace a leaking roof.

The revamp includes restoring original floor levels in the Grade I listed keep and recreating the great hall and the apartments of Norman kings.

A Norfolk Museums Service spokesperson said: "We're incredibly excited to announce that Norwich Castle's Royal Palace will open on 7 August 2025.

"Made possible thanks to National Lottery players, the redevelopment project Norwich Castle: Royal Palace Reborn has received £13m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and support from Norfolk County Council.

"The keep has been completely reimagined as part of the project, bringing Norman England vividly back to life."

Norwich Castle is more than 900 years old and was used as a Victorian prison

The county council provided funds of £4.7m last year, in addition to previous increases to the budget.

A new gallery of Medieval life is being created in partnership with the British Museum, which will see about 1,000 artefacts go on display.

Norfolk Museums Service also believes the castle will now be "the UK's most accessible" as there will be step-free access from the basement up to the rooftop battlements.

Upgraded visitor facilities, including a glass atrium and a new shop, cafe and learning space, opened last year as part of the project.

General booking for tickets will open on Thursday 24 July, with priority booking opening a week earlier for those with a Norfolk Museums Pass.