A medieval castle which once held Mary, Queen of Scots as a prisoner is set to reopen to the public next year thanks to a new partnership.
Hospitality company Bespoke Inns is taking on the lease of Tutbury Castle in an agreement with owner the Duchy of Lancaster.
The revitalised caste will feature a new restaurant, café and large events and wedding space within the grounds in East Staffordshire.
It is expected to open in early summer next year.
Naomi Browne, senior estates surveyor at the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Bespoke Inns to Tutbury Castle and look forward to working with them as they bring new life and energy to this much-loved historic site.
“The Duchy has made significant investments to protect and preserve the castle’s fabric in recent years, and this new partnership represents an exciting next step. Bespoke Inns’ commitment to quality, community, and creativity makes them an ideal custodian for the castle’s future.”
Derbyshire-based Bespoke Inns recently opened The Hart in Uttoxeter and has other popular venues in Willington, Repton, Melbourne and Mickleover, all in Derbyshire.
Director Emily Nash said: “We are incredibly excited to begin this new chapter at Tutbury Castle. It is rich in history and deeply valued by the community, so we feel very privileged to play a part in shaping its future. Our aim is to create a welcoming destination where great food, memorable events, and the unique character of the castle come together.”
Largely ruined Tutbury Castle is a Grade II-listed building built in 1071.
Mary, Queen of Scots spent long periods there between 1569 and 1585 as the prisoner of Elizabeth I.
The castle fell to parliamentary forces during the English Civil War in 1646 and was destroyed after a siege.
It has been closed to the public for a couple of years.
