Norwich Castle opens door to medieval future
Norfolk Museums Service has secured the funding to transform the site into one of the region’s premier heritage attractions.
[quote=Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of HLF]"Thanks to National Lottery players, this major project is set to transform Norwich Castle." [/quote]
Sights, sounds and treasures
King Henry VI’s 900-year-old keep will once again be full of the sights, sounds and stories of a Norman royal castle, while a partnership with the British Museum will bring nationally important treasures to Norwich, as part of a new medieval gallery.
Once fit for a king, the keep will be fit for a modern audience and will include:
- Medieval treasures on display from national and Norfolk-based collections
- A Great Hall complete with banqueting table, chapel and minstrels’ gallery
- Newly exposed Norman archaeology and architecture, telling hidden stories of the castle’s past
- Stunning views of medieval and modern-day Norwich from a unique platform at battlement level
- Digital and learning spaces, which will be used as part of an innovative event and outreach programme
- Improved access; for the first time all five levels of the keep will be accessible and there will be new and improved facilities for visitors
- Opportunities for volunteers, trainees and apprentices
Boost for heritage and tourism
As well as major National Lottery funding, the project has received funds from a range of partners and from the public – who raised money through the ‘Keep Giving’ campaign and an ‘Adopt an Object’ scheme.
Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of HLF, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, this major project is set to transform Norwich Castle, bringing it back to life in a way that recognises the important role it once played as one of the most important buildings in Europe and making a real difference to the region’s heritage and tourism offer.”
The revitalised keep is expected to open in 2020.