A collapsed piece of masonry at Rochester Castle has forced the medieval fort to be closed suddenly.

The castle, which dates back to the 11th century, was shut "due to unforeseen circumstances" this morning after part of stonework fell into the historic Norman keep.

The site on the banks of the River Medway is a popular tourist attraction managed by Medway Council and reopened to the public following lockdown earlier this month.

The council confirmed the closure is in place after a piece of mortar from around a stone fell from the structure. It is believed specialists are now being brought in to assess the condition and safety of the building.

It is anticipated the castle will be closed for a week while repairs and checks are carried out.

Bob Dimond, head of sport, leisure, tourism and heritage at Medway Council, said: “Unfortunately we have had to close Rochester Castle keep for essential maintenance work. We understand that this is disappointing news but the health and safety of all our visitors is of the upmost importance to us.

“The castle will remain closed until the works are completed but residents are still able to enjoy the castle grounds until 5pm each day.

"We would encourage everyone visiting the grounds to continue following social distancing guidelines.”

The historic fortification, which is managed by the council on behalf of English Heritage, was built in 1087 by the Bishop of Rochester at the time, Gundulf - one of William the Conqueror's leading architects.

A message posted on the council's tourism website Visit Medway said the attraction would be closed "until further notice".

It said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, the castle will be closed until further notice.

"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause."

The castle's surrounding grounds and gardens will remain open until 5pm.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed the grounds would be closed and gates locked every evening following anti-social behaviour and social distancing concerns by revellers partying late into the night.

The castle reopened this month with a range of social distancing safety measures in place, no pre-booking but limits on visitor numbers.

The Norman tower-keep was built in about 1127 and stands 113ft high.

In 1215, the castle endured an epic siege by King John and was also rebuilt under Henry III and Edward I.

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