Historic Clitheroe Castle 'vanishes' from skyline for first time in 800 years - here's why

An historic landmark has ‘vanished’ from the Lancashire skyline for the first time in 800 years.

The remains of Clitheroe Castle’s Norman keep date back to the 12th Century, with the grand stone structure towering above Clitheroe town centre and dominating the skyline for miles around.

Now, the landmark has now been hidden from view, with Ribble Valley Borough Council teasing its ‘disappearance’ on social media. A spokesperson for the local authority wrote: “Where's Clitheroe Castle keep gone??”.

Don’t worry, the 800-year-old structure isn’t going anywhere but it has been hidden by protective plastic sheeting, as part of a major, ongoing restoration project.

Phase one of the Clitheroe Castle scheme, which began in December of last year, focuses on the preserving the historic keep for generations to come.

Scaffolding is currently in place around the structure, with specialist contractors fixing or replacing crumbling stonework, fitting new flashing to prevent water damage and other intricate works.

The restoration of the keep - which is currently closed to the public - is expected to be finished in May, with the wider programme of improvements to Clitheroe Castle and its grounds due to begin in April.

The plan upgrades include new benches, bins and signposts, better paths and steps, improved lighting, as well as a revamp of the bandstand and new roofing and boilers at the castle museum.

There will also be upgrades to the park’s multi-use games area and skatepark, and the creation of a new outdoor gym on the former tennis courts.