ONE of the region's best-loved landmarks is to close for renovation.

Lindisfarne Castle, a Grade I-listed building on Holy Island, is to close in November 2016 at the start of 18 months of conservation work.

The National Trust-managed castle is scheduled to undergo £3m of restoration work before reopening to visitors in April 2018.

The 460-year-old castle, which overlooks the North Sea, needs urgent work to deal with penetrating damp, restore the stonework and pointing and repair the windows.

During work, the Jekyll walled garden in the castle grounds and19th century lime kilns will remain open to visitors.

Castle steward Nick Lewis said: “The spectacular location of Lindisfarne Castle is part of what makes this place special, but it also means that it has been ravaged by wind, rain and tides for hundreds of years.

"Investing in this conservation work will mean that we can secure the future of this important building and ensure its survival for the enjoyment of future generations.

"Whilst it is a very difficult decision to have to close the Castle, it is essential in order to complete these works safely and as quickly as possible within the tight spaces of this historic site.”