Norwich Castle’s Royal Palace
Norwich Castle's Great Hall on the first day of opening.
After 5 years of reconstruction, Norwich Castle’s Royal Palace has officially reopened to great fanfares. What an absolute privilege to step back in time and relive how Norwich Castle would have welcomed their first Royal visitor in 1121. Everyone involved in the project deserves huge applause for this incredible transformation. There is something for everyone.
King Henry 1 visited Norwich for Christmas in 1121 with his second wife, Queen Adeliza. The visit aiming to reinforce the King’s authority with the castle serving as a centre of Norman rule.
Norwich Castle dates back to the twelfth-century and was once one of Europe’s most important buildings. The Grade 1 listed building sits on top of the largest man-made mound in the UK. William the Conqueror commissioned the Castle and it was completed by his son, King Henry I.
The “Royal Palace Reborn” project has transformed the castle, reinstating original medieval floors and rooms. This is all thanks to a multi-million-pound redevelopment supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
You can explore the keep from the basement to the battlements, making this the most accessible castle in Britain. The battlements are accessible on all four sides, providing a spectacular 360* view across our fine City.
Royal Palace Reborn, view from Battlements of City Hall
Georgina Postlethwaite, Marketing Manager, said “The views across our great City are second to known. I can not wait to revisit to pinpoint more landmarks and at Christmas time to see all the festive lights!”
View from Norwich Castle Battlements of Norwich Cathedral
Gallery of Medieval Life in Norwich Castle’s Royal Palace
This beautiful new gallery has been created in partnership with the British Museum – its first medieval gallery outside of London. It is an opportunity to discover over 900 original medieval objects.
You can purchase tickets for Norwich Castle here. Or you can choose to purchase a Norfolk Museums Pass, which provides unlimited entry to all 10 Norfolk Museums for a whole year.
Where to stay when visiting Norwich Castle’s Royal Palace
Book a historic stay at the Maids Head and enjoy not only our Royal Palace but also Strangers Hall and the Museum of Norwich, all found within walking distance of the Hotel.
Call 01603 209955, or email reservations@maidsheadhotel.co.uk to book.
Consider booking a walking tour, Medieval Norwich – from the Normans to the Tudors, with local tour guide Paul Dickson.
Channel 4 will broadcast a new documentary from Eye Film which follows the renovation of Norwich Castle on Sunday 24th August at 7.30pm. “The Castle Rebuilding History” is narrated by Stephen Fry.