A HISTORIC tourist site is set to reopen after a major renovation.
The works at , totalling £27.5 million, have been completed with the attraction preparing to .
Renovation work first started in the summer of 2020 but was delayed by issues including the pandemic and difficulties sourcing materials.
This caused the cost of the Royal Palace Reborn project to rise from £20 million to £27.5 million.
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 becompleted 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.”
New features
Last year, the county councilprovided 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.
Over the years, the location has served as a Victorian prison and a museum.
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