Oakham Castle, a 12th-century castle in the heart of Rutland, has been closed for essential maintenance and repair work until 16 October. 

The castle was first built in 1180 as part of a manor house and later fortified with a moat and drawbridge. 

During the castle's closure, the grounds will remain open for visitors but the carpark on site will be closed. 

The Castle Courtyard Café will also be closed until 30th September. 

The works being carried out will be funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which helps to maintain local heritage for future generations. 

The work being doing will include replacing lime plaster and weatherproofing the inside walls of the Great Hall. There will also be additional improvements to the heating and electrics inside the castle, as well as a new footpath and toilets.