ARUNDEL Castle greeted visitors through its historic gates amid the easing of lockdown restrictions.
The building, which had remained closed over the winter to carry out essential restoration work, reopened today for the first time this year.
Dating back to the 11th century, many of the castle’s original features, including the Norman keep, the medieval gatehouse and the barbican, remain today.
Like other attractions around Sussex, the castle has been forced to adapt to accommodate social distancing measures.
There is now a modified route which includes the Barons Hall, the Library and the Grand Staircase where a recently restored 18th century tapestry can be seen.
Castle director Stephen Manion said the historic keep will open once restrictions are fully lifted.
He said: “Arundel Castle is delighted to open its doors to visitors as part of the lockdown exit measures.
“The fabulous rooms, art and furnishings are all beautifully displayed in the magnificent castle building, parts of which date from the 11th century.
“Due to the social remoteness, there is a modified route which includes the Great Hall of the Barons, the astonishing library and the grand staircase on which the recently restored 18th century Gobelin tapestry hangs, leading to the bedrooms.
“The historic keep will open later, when restrictions are lifted, but can be admired from the outside.
“The thrilling medieval event from May 29 to 31 will feature falconry, the clash of steel and the victory cries of formidable sword fights.
“The aromas of cooking and the sound of the blacksmith will be accompanied by the pipe and the drum of our musicians.
The castle was closed for the winter for restoration work
“For the young and the young at heart, take-out archery will test their skills.”
During the winter, a helicopter was used to transport materials in and out of the park, above the towering castle walls.
A highlight currently open to visitors is the Regency Library, which holds 10,000 books.
The staff remove them and clean them individually each year when the castle closes.
The library is 122 feet long and is fully stocked with Honduran mahogany and the oldest printed book is the Augsburg Bible, 1477.
The great barons’ room, a view of the grand staircase and the dining room and living room are also open until November 1st.
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Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-05-18 14:01:43
