An 800-year-old former fortress is to receive a £17.7m refurbishment to be transformed into what authorities hope will be a major tourist attraction.

Haverfordwest Castle in Pembrokeshire will be temporarily closed until 2028 as it undergoes restoration that includes grounds able to host open-air events for 500 people.

Pembrokeshire council said it believed the attraction could act as an important hub for tourists and will signpost visitors to other key heritage sites around the county.

It said the development would act as "a catalyst for the regeneration of Haverfordwest".

The idea came after councillor David Lloyd noticed the economic impact the development of Cardigan Castle had on its town centre.

The aim is to attract more people to visit and spend time in the town.

The council believes the large 18th Century gaol building and adjacent Governor's House within the castle grounds will create an all-weather attraction that tells the story of Pembrokeshire's past.

After the changes, the grounds will be free to access, and will have community spaces and an open-air events area for 500 people.

The first mention of the castle was by Giraldus Cambrensis as one of the places he visited in 1188 with Archbishop Baldwin.

At the time, the castle was only an earth and timber construction which later became stone.

The project will enhance its green spaces and biodiversity through a medicinal garden, micro-meadows and pollinator-friendly planting. It will also include a dedicated school programme and volunteering opportunities for the community.

A spokesperson from Pembrokeshire council said: "The attraction will not only bring its remarkable history, but will also act as a catalyst for the regeneration of Haverfordwest."

The council estimates around 63,000 people will visit the town in the project's first year.