A historic Northumberland castle is set to reopen in a limited way as work on a “new way of operating” continues. Prudhoe Castle closed its doors to visitors last April to the shock of local residents.
Operator English Heritage cited low visitor numbers as the reason behind the closure, with the charity seeking a “new way to operate” to improve sustainability. At that time, the site was closed in its entirety, although the outer ward reopened in June.
However, pre-booked guided tours of the castle and inner sections are set to resume alongside group bookings and events.
A statement from English Heritage read: “We’re changing how we welcome visitors to Prudhoe Castle, and a new way of operating is currently being developed. In the meantime, the Outer Ward Walk is now open daily and free to access between 10am and 4pm.
“The castle and inner section of the site is open on a frequent basis for pre-booked guided tours, group bookings and events only. Please check the website for further details.”
The fortress dates back to the 11th century, and is famed as the only castle in the county to have never fallen to the Scots. English Heritage states that the castle occupies a “naturally strong position” and guards a “vital crossing” of the Tyne.
Coun Gordon Stewart, who represents the Prudhoe South ward on Northumberland County Council, has campaigned for the castle to be reopened. He said: “Prudhoe Castle is extremely important to the tourism offer along the Tyne Valley and beyond.
“It is a much loved symbol for Prudhoe and the community. I am pleased this move has been achieved, and is hopefully a move towards a greater offer for visitors in the future.”
Prudhoe Castle was one of three of English Heritage’s 28 sites across Northumberland the charity sought “a new way to operate,” with the other two being Aydon Castle, near Corbridge, and Brinkburn Priory, near Rothbury.
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