The Duchy of Lancaster is custodian to a number of historic properties, many of which are managed in partnership with local authorities or agencies such as English Heritage. However, three key landmarks – Lancaster Castle, The King’s Chapel of the Savoy and Tutbury Castle are managed by the Duchy.
In recent years, the Duchy has invested significantly in ensuring these nationally important sites are protected, preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.
Lancaster Castle – From Fortress to Community Landmark
Lancaster Castle has been at the heart of the city for more than 1,000 years. Originally built as a Norman fortress, the Castle has served as a court, a prison, and now as one of Lancashire’s most visited heritage sites.
Since taking over management of the site in 2012, the Duchy has invested millions in a comprehensive programme of restoration and conservation. This work has included vital repairs to the 11th-century Keep and the 14th-century Well Tower, alongside wider improvements to ensure the Castle remains a safe and accessible destination for the local community and visitors alike.
Lancaster Castle now attracts more than 200,000 visitors each year, offering free access to explore its extraordinary history as a centre of justice and incarceration for over eight centuries. Guests can visit the Witches’ Exhibition, Castle courtyards and, on Thursdays and Fridays, the Lancashire Police Museum — all without charge or the need to join a guided tour.
Tripadvisor has recently recognised the Castle’s commitment to delivering an outstanding visitor experience with its prestigious Travelers’ Choice Award, placing it among the very best heritage attractions worldwide. This accolade is based on the consistently positive reviews and high levels of visitor satisfaction from guests across the globe.
Lancaster Castle also plays an important role in local community life, hosting civic and commemorative occasions such as VE and VJ Day services, plus many family-friendly activities and functions. In June 2025, the Castle had the honour of welcoming His Majesty The King, in his role as Duke of Lancaster, highlighting the enduring historic ties between the Monarch and the City.
The Duchy is committed to further enhancing the Castle for the local community and visitors from around the world. Plans are in place for more restoration works, alongside an expanded programme of events, ensuring Lancaster Castle continues to grow as a high-profile historic landmark at the heart of the city.
The King’s Chapel of the Savoy – Stewarding a Royal Sanctuary
The King’s Chapel of the Savoy is one of London’s hidden gems and the last remaining building of the historic Savoy Palace. As the private Chapel of the Sovereign in their right as Duke of Lancaster, it holds a unique place in the nation’s ecclesiastical and royal heritage.
In recent years, the Duchy has overseen a series of careful restoration and maintenance projects, ensuring the Chapel remains both a place of active worship and a beautiful example of our living heritage. These works have focused on preserving the Chapel’s historic stonework, stained-glass windows, and intricate interior features, securing its role as a site of royal and public significance in the heart of the capital.
Tutbury Castle – Preserving a Local Treasure
The Duchy is also in the fourth phase of essential repairs at Tutbury Castle, an iconic Staffordshire landmark with a Grade I listed Great Hall and Scheduled Monument status.
Since 2021, a major repair programme has been under way to conserve the Castle’s roofs, masonry and historic external fabric. The current phase of works are due to be completed by the end of this year, protecting the Castle for future use and opening up exciting opportunities for a new tenant to develop and operate a heritage-led business on the site.
Alastair Martin, Chief Executive of the Duchy of Lancaster, commented:
"As custodian of these historic buildings, the Duchy has a responsibility to protect and preserve them, not just for today, but for generations to come. These sites are part of our shared history – from the walls of Lancaster Castle to the stones of Tutbury and the sanctuary of the Savoy Chapel – and we are proud to play our part in ensuring they continue to serve their communities and inspire visitors for years to come."
Through careful investment, skilled conservation and community partnership, the Duchy of Lancaster continues to ensure that its historic buildings remain protected, accessible and relevant for future generations.
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For more information about Lancaster Castle, please visit the official website.