Nottingham Castle
Retelling a thousand years of history
Home to the enduring legend of Robin Hood, we led both the Conservation Management Plan and the transformative design that has preserved, restored, and reimagined Nottingham Castle for future generations.
The historic site has been brought vividly back to life through the sensitive refurbishment of the 17th-century Ducal Palace, the atmospheric cave networks beneath the castle rock, and the imposing medieval gatehouse. The project also features reimagined landscaping and a contemporary visitor centre—immersing visitors in the rich heritage and folklore of one of England’s most iconic stories.
Part-funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund; the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership; Nottingham City Council; and Nottingham Castle Trust, the redevelopment celebrates the castle’s architectural legacy, historical importance, and its evolving role in the cultural life of the UK.
The scheme not only restores and enhances the castle’s heritage assets—including the vast cave systems—but also contributes to the local economy and environment. Accessibility has been greatly improved across the site, with optimised space planning that makes the castle, grounds, and caves more inclusive and welcoming.
Our approach to conservation has been both meticulous and sensitive to the site’s dramatic landscape context, while transforming it into a vibrant, accessible destination that plays a vital cultural role in the city.
From the careful restoration of the Gatehouse and Ducal Palace to the creation of the new visitor centre, Nottingham Castle has been revived as a flagship heritage site. This project marks a new chapter in its thousand-year story—securing its future for generations to come.
The Visitor Centre
Our design of the new visitor centre provides a welcoming starting point for exploring the castle. It includes ticketing, café, and high-quality retail facilities.
Clad in sleek contemporary materials and featuring large, light-filled windows, the centre offers expansive views across the landscaped grounds and sits harmoniously within its historic setting.
The design brings clarity and orientation to the visitor experience.
Sustainable technologies—including air source heat pumps, efficient lighting, and energy monitoring systems—reduce the building’s environmental footprint while empowering occupants to manage energy use actively.
Facade and Textile Gallery restoration
Within the Ducal Palace, the former textile gallery has been transformed into the Rebellion Gallery. A 1980s partition was removed, restoring the gallery to its original historic proportions and revealing its full grandeur.
The revitalised space now tells the nationally significant story of Nottingham’s history of social protest and rebellion—key moments that shaped the democratic freedoms we enjoy today.
Accessibility
The man-made caves beneath the castle and city centre offer a rich tapestry of geological and social history. Enhanced lighting and new handrails have improved visibility and safety, significantly increasing accessibility.
Wheelchair access has been introduced across most public areas of the site, both inside and outside the castle. A Changing Places facility has been integrated into the gatehouse, demonstrating Nottingham City Council’s strong commitment to accessibility across all its cultural initiatives.
The reconfigured landscape enhances the historic setting, revealing dramatic views of the castle and drawing attention to key archaeological features—helping to tell the story of the site in a deeper, more engaging way.
A lasting legacy
The transformation of Nottingham Castle stands as a landmark achievement in heritage-led regeneration—balancing deep respect for the past with bold ambition for the future. By preserving its historic fabric, enhancing accessibility, and enriching the visitor experience, the project ensures this legendary site continues to inspire, educate, and engage.
Team
- Rachael Roberts Associate
Details
- Client Nottingham City Council
- Team Cambridge Studio
- Location Nottingham
- Country United Kingdom
- Listing Status Grade I
- Photography Diane Auckland