Tutbury Castle reopening pushed back as first detailed plans unveiled

Tutbury Castle’s reopening has been pushed back to spring 2027, with its future operator now giving a first detailed glimpse of what the historic site will look like.

The medieval castle in East Staffordshire will feature a new café, event spaces and accommodation when it reopens, but the formal handover of its lease has been delayed to allow a sweeping programme of vital restoration and conservation work to be completed.

Bespoke Inns said the new café will be the “new beating heart of the castle” and that it aims to “create a characterful space that respects the historic setting, celebrates local quality produce and becomes a popular meeting place for the community.”

The firm’s long-term vision is to create a permaculture garden with vegetable beds to supply food to the new café.

The company has also unveiled proposals for The Castle Atrium, a high‑quality, all‑weather events space within the grounds that will host weddings, celebrations, community events and Sunday lunches. Bespoke Inns said the structure will be sympathetic to the castle’s historic surroundings while providing modern comfort and flexibility.

Other plans include The Muster, a grab‑and‑go outlet overlooking the sward serving ice creams, milkshakes and refreshments; new historic accommodation within the upper floor of the main house; and a dedicated space for private dining and small events.

Looking further ahead, Bespoke Inns is exploring a collection of shepherd huts for overnight stays, seasonal camping and glamping areas, and a programme of wellbeing retreats.

The Duchy of Lancaster is making a “significant investment” in the fabric and future of the castle, undertaking a programme of works ahead of Bespoke Hospitality taking on the day-to-day operation of the site.

The revised handover timetable means Bespoke will begin its programme slightly later than originally anticipated, but the team say they are “hugely excited about the long-term vision for Tutbury Castle and the opportunity to create a vibrant and sustainable future for this remarkable historic site.”

Emily Nash, Director at Bespoke Hospitality said: “We are incredibly eager to get started at Tutbury Castle, but we also recognise the importance of allowing The Duchy of Lancaster the time required to complete this significant programme of essential works.

“The investment being made in the Castle demonstrates a real commitment to its long-term future. Once the handover takes place, our team will be able to commence our own programme of works and start bringing to life the exciting plans we have for this remarkable place.”

A spokesperson for The Duchy of Lancaster said: “Tutbury Castle is a site of considerable historic significance, and it is important that the necessary maintenance and conservation works are undertaken carefully and to the appropriate standard.”

The local community, couples and businesses got a sneak peak at the new plans at a recent Community Open Day and Wedding Fair.

Emily added: “We were delighted to welcome the local community through the gates, outlining a few of our plans and listening to the ideas and aspirations local people have for the future of Tutbury Castle.”

Read the original Daily Focus story about the castle’s reopening here.