WARWICK Castle has reopened its doors to the public following a thorough ‘spring’ clean.
A dedicated team of in-house experts and carefully appointed contractors – including conservationists, construction workers, painters, and gardeners – have spent the last couple of weeks giving the medieval castle an in-depth polish.
One of the first steps undertaken was the removal of the hundreds of Christmas decorations, a considerable challenge that requires a huge team effort every year.
Afterwards, the conservation team proceeded to deep-clean the castle room by room to remove any dust left behind after the season’s festivities.
One of the more unique tasks of getting the ancient landmark ‘spick and span’ includes the cleaning of the collections of historic arms and armour displayed in the Great Hall, where a specialist team remove the dust and gently polish each item to protect it for another year and generations to come.
Meanwhile, the luxury Tower Suites’ regal bathrooms have been newly refurbished as well as enjoying some regular TLC, with an investment of £50,000 to update this accommodation option for overnight stays.
Further renovations during Warwick Castle’s short winter closure include a kitchen refurbishment in the Undercroft Café, and handrail painting on the Towers and Ramparts.
Out in the grounds, tree surgery will continue for the rest of winter. With more than 2,000 trees to tend to, and around 100 notable veteran specimens, the castle employs a specialist to survey the trees every year and carry out works to maintain their health, and keep them as safe as possible.
Warwick Castle’s winter renovations come after the attraction completed an extensive conservation project, including the full restoration of stonework on the iconic landmark’s South Front, just two years ago in 2021. Beginning in 1983, the full works saw more than £25 million invested in conserving the renowned historic landmark.
