The castle was built between 1180 and 1190 by Walkelin de Ferrers, a Norman baron who participated in the Third Crusade with Richard I and was present at the Siege of Acre and the Battle of Arsuf in 1191. It sits at the heart of the historic county town of Rutland and, being a focal point for the area for over 800 years, is one of the most popular places to visit in the East Midlands. Its Great Hall hosts the castle's famous collection of over 200 horseshoes donated by visiting peers and monarchs over the last 500 years. The Great Hall is also the oldest court building in England that has remained in continuous use since it was built.

The project saw a 12th-century curtain wall restored and improved, as well as the Great Hall repointed, repainted and cleaned. It also included a varied programme of events and family activities bringing alive the history of the castle.

Its reopening event saw local people transported back to Norman England, taking part in such events as coin striking, falconry, archery and weaving.