Enniskillen Castle has officially reopened following a major multi-million pound refurbishment. The world-class castle is a now a museum and heritage and information gateway for the entire region.

The project has enabled the many historic buildings within the complex to be opened up, creating additional space for the museum’s significant collections and increasing public access to these.

There are now seven galleries which tell the story of the Castle, the town and the county from prehistoric to modern times. Imaginative displays of objects, photographs, paintings, archives and oral histories help to bring the unique history and heritage of the area to life.

[quote=Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland]"This project has been a great success which reaffirms the Castle’s role as the gateway to the region."[/quote]

Visitors can go behind the scenes to see museum staff undertake real restoration and conservation work, view the fine and decorative art collection housed in the Full Circle Art Gallery, and even get help to trace their own family tree.  There is also a new purpose-built Visitor Centre where visitors can enjoy some refreshments alongside beautiful views of Lough Neagh and the castle’s redeveloped grounds.

Speaking at the official opening event, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, Paul Mullan, said: “Enniskillen Castle has been significant throughout its 600-year-old history as a strategic asset that was fought over many times. But I think everyone can agree that this project has been a great success which reaffirms the castle’s role as the gateway to the region. 

“Thanks to National Lottery players this historic complex has been transformed, with new galleries and exhibitions space, visitor information centre and enhanced facilities creating a world-class heritage attraction for everyone to enjoy.”