900-Year-Old Norwich Castle Unveils Stunning £27.5M Transformation

Norwich Castle Transformed into the People’s Palace

Reimagining a Medieval Icon

In a bold move to bridge heritage and modernity, Norwich Castle has been rebranded as the People’s Palace. This initiative turns the medieval stronghold into a welcoming space where visitors of all abilities can explore its storied halls.

Key Accessibility Features & Highlights

• Barrier‑free Access – ramps and lifts now connect every corner of the castle.
• Interactive Exhibits – tactile displays and audio descriptions invite hands‑on learning.
• Inclusive Pathways – smooth, wide passages accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
• Guided Tours – specially trained guides tailor visits to diverse needs.
• Accessibility Information – clear signage and digital assistance ensure visitors can navigate with confidence.

By opening its doors to everyone, the People’s Palace not only preserves the grandeur of Norman architecture, it also delivers an inclusive experience that sets a new standard for historic sites across the UK.

Norwich Castle Keep Reopens After £27.5 Million Overhaul

After a five‑year, £27.5 million restoration, Norwich Castle Keep—one of Europe’s most treasured Norman fortresses—has opened its doors to the public for the first time.

Historical Significance

• Constructed by William the Conqueror and finished under his son, King Henry I, in 1121.
• Stands tall above Norwich’s skyline as a lasting emblem of Norman authority.
• Designated a Grade I listed building after centuries of heritage.

New Visitor Experience

The castle has been rebranded as the “People’s Palace,” offering access to all five floors—basement, main levels, skyway—unprecedented in its history.

• First‑time opening of the rooftop battlements to the public.
• State‑of‑the‑art lift now serves as the UK’s most fully accessible castle, providing wheelchair and pushchair access from the ground to the roof.

What to Expect Inside

Guests will now discover the full breadth of the keep, from its ancient foundations to the medieval high‑point—all within a restored, visitor‑friendly environment.

Key Highlights

• Interactive exhibits showcasing the keep’s historical architecture.
• Guided tours available on all levels.
• Special accessibility features ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Norwich Castle Reopens After Historic Restoration

From a National Treasure to a Modern Experience

In a stunning unveiling, Norwich Castle was opened to the public on 13 August 2025, following a comprehensive renovation that has transformed the medieval fortress into a dynamic, interactive museum.

Insights from Leadership

“Norwich Castle is the largest Norman keep ever built. It stands as one of Europe’s most spectacular and beautiful 12th‑century secular structures,” declared Steven Miller, director of the Norfolk Museums Service. He added, “We aimed to make it accessible and enjoyable for as many visitors as possible.”

In a follow‑up statement, Miller expressed confidence that the castle will soon join the leading tier of castles in the UK and Europe.

Immersive Visitor Experience

Upon entering, visitors find meticulously recreated Norman royal chambers adorned with authentic furnishings. The Great Hall now features interactive displays and immersive audio‑visual laser projections that narrate the castle’s rich history.

The project also forged a partnership with the British Museum, bringing over 900 medieval artefacts—including 50 long‑term loans—to the newly built Gallery of Medieval Life. These items enhance the relevance and depth of the exhibits by placing them within a genuine medieval context.

Curator’s Perspective

Naomi Speakman, the Late Medieval Europe Curator at the British Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the venture. “Displaying medieval artefacts in a real medieval building brings them to life and allows visitors to connect with the historical narrative on a deeper level,” she said.

She noted that Norwich’s medieval significance extends beyond its size: “Wool trade prosperity and the wealth of merchants made Norwich a powerhouse in England’s economic landscape, earning it the nickname ‘England’s second city’.”

Related Highlights

• Bavarian fairy tale castles and French Carnac Megaliths added to UNESCO World Heritage list
• Historic English castle, once tied to the Gunpowder Plot, up for sale after 700 years

Explore the Transformation

View the restoration journey in the accompanying video, featuring site interviews and behind‑the‑scenes footage.