Reconnecting Berkhamsted Castle

A café and shop, exhibitions, historical re-enactments and a full programme of events would encourage local residents to visit Berkhamsted Castle more often, according to the results of a public consultation held by Berkhamsted Castle Trust in early summer.

The report on Reconnecting Berkhamsted Castle, prepared for the Trust by Land Use Consultants, suggests possible future improvements, including better interpretation materials, physical connections from the castle and improvements to existing public rights of way. There is also support for improving the arrival experience from the town and train station.

Over half of respondents did not know about Berkhamsted deer park or the historic and cultural significance of the landscape, and there was strong support for the idea of better connecting the castle with the former deer park to celebrate its rich historic and cultural heritage.

While 40% of respondents supported dedicated parking for castle visitors, and 52% said they would visit more often if there were public toilets, there was also some support for events and volunteering.

When it comes to future improvements of the surrounding landscape, respondents would like to see dedicated walking routes, signage and interpretation, as well as improvements to biodiversity, engagement with schools, new areas of public open space and artistic installations. Specific improvements suggested include more information at the castle site, better connections to the surroundings, and improved access for pedestrians.

Adrian Barham, chairman of the Berkhamsted Castle Trust, added: ‘We have shared the full report with English Heritage and Historic England, and await a date for a meeting to discuss this further with them. We have also provided copies to Dacorum Borough Council, who part-funded the report through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and to Berkhamsted Town Council, who we hope will take this into account when developing the town’s new Neighbourhood Plan.’