Norwich Castle in Norfolk is undergoing a £10 million renovation to transport visitors back 900 years to the heyday of Norman England. The Grade I-listed keep will be restored to how it would have looked in the 12th century, offering an immersive experience of medieval life. The renovation includes a new permanent gallery in partnership with the British Museum, showcasing over 1,000 historical objects from the Norman Conquest to the reign of Henry VIII. Character panels will bring the stories of people who lived in or visited the castle in the 1100s to life, making the period accessible to visitors of all ages. Projections, audio visual installations, and virtual reality will also be used to bring the castle back to life, allowing visitors to explore Norman Norwich.
In addition to Norwich Castle, other historic refurbishments are opening in the UK this summer. Therme Manchester will feature 25 swimming pools, 25 water slides, and an indoor beach, while Modern Surf Manchester will offer surfing lessons for beginners and experts. Chessington World of Adventures waterpark is adding wave, infinity, and spa pools, as well as waterslides and cabanas, and The Cove Resort in Southport is set to have a water lagoon and thermal spa. The Seahive in Deal plans to become the UK’s “surfing wellness resort.”
Devon’s Watermouth Castle in Ilfracombe is a unique theme park with rides inside a Grade II listed castle. The park will be adding three new play areas costing £850,000, replacing the popular snail ride track and setting up a pixie museum. Rochdale Town Hall, built in 1871, has undergone a restoration with £8.9 million in additional funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The improvements include restoring original features, opening new spaces and rooms, and creating a new visitor attraction and community space. The theme park inspired by a famous royal will feature a play tree, zipline, and go-karts, while a lesser-known theme park is getting a new ride for the summer.
