A Kent castle is set to reopen to visitors this weekend, five months after it was forced to close.

Originally built by Henry VIII to counter the threat of invasion from European Catholic powers, Deal Castle, which is run by English Heritage, closed its doors in March.

It will reopen on Saturday, August 1, joining the majority of the charity's sites which are now open again, including nearby Dover Castle.

Visitors to the Tudor fortress will need to pre-book tickets but once on site will be able to stay as long as they like.

New measures will be introduced to ensure safety, including social distancing and visitor numbers limited.

The charity - which cares for more than 400 historic monuments, buildings and places, has been carrying out a phased reopening of staffed sites since June, which across Kent also includes Walmer Castle and the home of Charles Darwin, Down House in Orpington.

Visitors will be able to explore the castle and visit the exhibition which reveals how Henry’s fears for the safety and security of his realm shaped the country’s defences and his own married life.

Property manager Benjamin Palmer said: “Our staff and volunteers have been working hard to adapt Deal for reopening.

"We want to reassure our visitors that their wellbeing is paramount which is why we have put stringent social distancing measures in place as well as reinforcing our high hygiene standards. We can’t wait to share the stories of this incredible site once again.”

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