Using the Castle Grounds

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The Castle grounds are a Scheduled Ancient Monument.  As such they are protected by legislation, and no structures can be built or erected without written permission from the Council

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The Council operates and maintains the Castle grounds as a free public park. Please obtain a parking pass from reception or cafe that enables 2 hours free parking on the day of your visit. The car park operates in accordance with advice from Historic England and other government departments.

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Limited car parking is available. Users are required to obtain a pass from a member of staff.  Spaces can be pre-booked for ceremony events taking place in the Great Hall.

 

We allow free public pedestrian access throughout the year for informal enjoyment of the site, including small family picnics and informal recreation.  Barbeques, cooking and fires are not permitted.

 

Pushchairs, prams, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome and access has been provided through ramps to the grassed areas

 

No motorised (except mobility scooters) or equestrian access is allowed on the grass, except for site maintenance purposes

 

Bicycles, roller-skates, skateboards and similar can be used in the low levels of the grounds at low speeds and with appropriate care to the safety of other users.  No jumps or obstacles may be set up. 

 

Bicycles, roller-skates, skateboards and similar must not be ridden up the slopes or steps as there is a significant risk of injury for the rider, other users, and damage to the site

 

Pets are welcome in the grounds as long as owners keep them under control and clear any waste

 

Metal detecting is prohibited, and no digging or other interference may be made with the grounds

 

Organised group activities (including exercise, sports and learning activities) can only be undertaken with prior approval of the Council and where required with the payment of a hire fee for non-exclusive use

 

The Council reserves the right to organise and deliver activities within the grounds, and where necessary to close public access for the duration of events or make a charge for entry

 

The site is used for regular ceremonial and civic events, which will take precedence over other activities