Castle bosses hope visitors will lay siege to beauty spot after big clean-up

Wakefield Council has just completed a number of improvements to the castle including a new fence at the top of the keep, enabling the full viewing platform to be open to the public for the first time in three years.

There is also new signage welcoming visitors and explaining what services are available as well as a map of the ruins; and cleaning of the stonework to remove graffiti.

The newly reopened section of the keep viewing platform offers a sheltered spot to take in the unrivalled views of Wakefield, Emley Moor, Pugneys Country Park and much more on a clear day.

Other recent improvements include newly refitted shop space and an expanded exhibition area which now features a more detailed history of the Battle of Wakefield. The shop stocks a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and ice cream.

Coun David Dagger, Wakefield Council cabinet member, said: “We are committed to maintaining Sandal Castle as a beauty spot and heritage site, and are developing the facilities there to improve the visitor experience for local people.”