Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle 
The Normans and Norwich 

At the heart of the historic city of Norwich, in East Anglia, the Grade I-listed Norwich Castle Keep stands as a powerful symbol of Norman influence. Commissioned by William the Conqueror and completed by his son, King Henry I, in 1121, its imposing walls are built from Caen limestone brought from Normandy, reflecting the strength and ambition of Norman rule.

Today, the grandeur of its medieval past is brought to life through a fully restored and immersive visitor experience. For the first time in its 900-year history, all five floors of the Keep are open to the public, from the basement to the battlements, with panoramic views across the city from the rooftop.

Following its restoration and reopening in 2025, the Castle presents The Gallery of Medieval Life: A British Museum Partnership. This gallery explores the medieval period from the Norman Conquest of 1066 to the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s, bringing together over 900 objects. These include items from the nationally significant collections of Norfolk Museums Service, alongside more than 50 works on long-term loan from the British Museum and additional loans from other institutions—many displayed to the public for the first time. 

Focusing on people from all levels of society, the gallery offers an immersive insight into everyday medieval life and its wider historical context.

Public engagement activities highlight the Norwich Friends Tapestry, a remarkable 19.68-metre-long embroidery inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry. Created by 50 local volunteers over more than 30,000 hours, it recounts two East Anglian rebellions against William the Conqueror. The tapestry forms part of a wider display of handcrafted textiles within the Castle Keep.

Partners: Visit East of England, Visit Norwich