- Norwich Castle reopened after a £27.5 million transformation.
- Visitors can explore all five floors for the first time, including the rooftop, via a new lift.
- The castle features immersive Norman chambers and audio-visual storytelling in the Great Hall.
One of Europe's most magnificent medieval castles has been given a spectacular new identity. Norwich Castle, a 900-year-old fortress that has dominated the city skyline since the reign of William the Conqueror, has reopened after a 27.5 million pounds transformation. Now rebranded as "The People's Palace," the castle is set to become one of the UK's most accessible and immersive historic attractions.
From Norman Power To People's Palace
The castle keep (the strongest, most heavily fortified part of a castle), originally completed in 1121 by King Henry I, was a symbol of Norman authority for centuries. Today, it has been reimagined with a modern twist - allowing visitors to explore all five floors for the very first time, from its atmospheric basement right up to the battlements.
A state-of-the-art lift now ensures that wheelchairs and pushchairs can reach every level, including the rooftop - a first for a Norman keep in the UK.
A Premier League Castle Experience
Steve Miller, director of the Norfolk Museums Service, calls Norwich Castle the largest Norman keep ever built and one of Europe's most spectacular 12th-century secular buildings. With this revamp, he hopes it will take its place among the "premier league of castles in the UK and perhaps even Europe," quoted Euro News.
Immersive Medieval Storytelling
Visitors can now step into meticulously recreated Norman royal chambers, complete with authentic furnishings and interactive displays. The Great Hall features immersive audio-visual laser projections that narrate the story of the castle's remarkable past.
Treasures From The British Museum
Adding to its appeal, the project includes a collaboration with the British Museum. More than 900 medieval artefacts are on display in the new Gallery of Medieval Life, including 50 long-term loans. Naomi Speakman, Late Medieval Europe Curator at the British Museum, says showcasing these artefacts inside a genuine medieval building gives visitors a deeper, more authentic connection to history.
When Can You Visit Norwich Castle?
Norwich Castle officially reopened to the public on August 13, 2025.
Opening Times: Open daily, including Sundays: 10 am to 5 pm
Tickets: Available on arrival or book in advance online
Norwich Castle Ticket Prices
- Norfolk Museums Pass holders: Free
- Adults: Advance online - 15.30 pounds; On the day - 17.00 pounds
- Family discount adult (with paid child ticket): Advance online - 13.95 pounds; On the day - 15.50 pounds
- Children (ages 4-18): Advance online - 13.05 pounds; On the day - 14.50 pounds
- Children under 4: Free
With its blend of history, innovation, and accessibility, Norwich Castle promises to be a must-visit destination for history lovers and travellers exploring the UK.
