English Heritage is set to offer a rare tour inside the Gatehouse of Donnington Castle.

On Saturday, September 14, as part of this year's Heritage Open Days Festival, visitors to the historic castle will also be treated to talks by expert historians and the unveiling of new information panels.

Situated near Newbury, Donnington Castle was once home to Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.

All that survives today of the 14th century building is its twin-towered Gatehouse.

Set within impressive earthworks built during the Civil War, the castle was ordered to be destroyed by Parliament in 1646.

Recent research by English Heritage has shed new light on the castle's history, reflected in the new information panels and in a bespoke audio guide that visitors can follow as they explore.

English Heritage's website also contains newly published, detailed historical information about the castle.

The day's talks, which will take place at St Mary's Church in Shaw, include The Story of the Rise and Fall of Donnington Castle by David Peacock and Reconstructing Donnington Castle by Steven Brindle.

Mr Peacock will trace the castle's past from the reign of Richard II through to Charles II, touching on some characterful families along the way including the Abberburys, the Chaucers, and the de la Poles.

Mr Brindle has applied his architectural expertise to studies of the ruins and archival records of Donnington Castle to reconstruct how it would have looked in the 14th century.

Ginny Slade, volunteer manager at English Heritage, said: "It’s a privilege for us to explore and celebrate the history of beautiful Donnington Castle for the benefit of future visitors.

"We hope people who are interested in their local history and in medieval history more generally will join us on September 14 to uncover the castle’s secrets."

The day will start at 9.30am and end at 4pm.

Joining is free, but tickets must be booked.

For more information, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk