Medieval English attraction once used as a prison is finally reopening after 5 years with £27.5million revamp
The works at Norwich Castle, totalling £27.5 million, have been completed with the attraction preparing to welcome the public for the first time in five years.
Renovation work first started in the summer of 2020 but was delayed by issues including the Covid pandemic and difficulties sourcing materials.
This caused the cost of the Royal Palace Reborn project to rise from £20 million to £27.5 million.
Norfolk County Council has now confirmed visitors will be able to see the work carried out in the 900-year-old building from Thursday, August 7.
The BBC previously reported that the work would be completed by the end of 2023.
Construction delays
However, construction was also delayed by the discovery of hidden Norman and Victorian features.
The replacement of a leaking roof also caused significant delays to the process.
This revamp includes restoring original floor levels in the Grade I listed keep, completed in 1121 by King Henry I, as well as recreating the great hall and the apartments of Norman kings.
"We're incredibly excited to announce that Norwich Castle's Royal Palace will open on 7 August 2025," said a Norfolk Museums Service spokesperson said.
"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."
Inside multi-million pound upgrade for popular Scots tourist attraction
New features
Last year, the county council provided funds of £4.7 million, in addition to previous increases to the budget.
A new gallery showcasing Medieval life is being created in partnership with the British Museum, and will see about 1,000 artefacts go on display.
Norfolk Museums Service also believes the castle will now be "the UK's most accessible", with step-free access from the basement up to the rooftop battlements.
Upgraded visitor facilities, including a glass atrium, a new shop, a cafe, and learning space, opened last year as part of the project.
General booking for tickets has already opened, with priority booking available for those with a Norfolk Museums Pass.
Three other castles to visit in the UK
THE UK is home to some amazing castles - here are some of the best:
Bamburgh Castle
This medieval fortress is built overlooking the stunning Northumberland coast, offering a wonderfully picturesque place to explore some of England's history.
The castle itself is incredibly well preserved and dates all the way back to the 11th century.
Kenilworth Castle
Brits can find out about sieges and royal scandals at Kenilworth Castle, one of the most famous forts in the country.
The medieval castle has had a fascinating history and was even transformed into an Elizabethan palace.
Today its keep, its Tudor towers and Elizabethan garden are among the sites people can explore.
Edinburgh Castle
Dominating the skyline of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle has been dubbed "defender of the nation" by locals.
Today, the castle is still an active military base, with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo remaining a highlight among visitors.
It's also home to Scotland's Crown Jewels as well as other national treasures.
Over the years, the location has served as a Victorian prison and a museum.
More on UK tourist attractions
And Britain's second biggest castle is finally reopening after a £8 million revamp.
Plus, the English castle with ancient woodlands that people say looks just like a Disney film.
An English castle could be cut off from mainland UK in £16 million beach protection plans.
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