New Chapter for Newark Castle Begins as Renovation Work Set to Commence

Newark Castle has stood at the town’s entrance for nearly 900 years, serving as a beloved local landmark and a symbol of the town’s heritage. Recognised by Historic England as the most complete example of its kind, the gatehouse will be at the heart of this ambitious restoration project. Plans include rebuilt rooms, new gallery spaces with lift access, interactive displays, and a tower-top viewing platform offering stunning views of the Trent Valley. The project will also protect the listed Victorian gardens and enhance the natural surroundings with a new lighting scheme to create a safe ‘after dark’ experience. Special floodlights will highlight architectural features, while pathways will feature low-level lighting. Wildlife will be welcomed too, with bat corridors and roosts included in the design.

Throughout the project’s early development, the plan has evolved to better reflect the community’s hopes for the site, with residents offering feedback to help shape the final designs. Wildlife-friendly planting, more things to do, more places to sit, and paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters have all been implemented into the project as part of the feedback. The District Council have worked closely with a number of specialists, including archaeologists, ecologists and access consultants.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “This project ensures the Castle remains standing strong for another 900 years while ensuring that accessibility and biodiversity are at its very heart.  We’ll be able to open new spaces in the Castle to the public and provide exhibitions telling of Newark’s rich medieval history.”

Liz Bates, Area Director, Midlands and East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “We are delighted to be supporting these ambitious plans to revitalise the historic Newark Castle. The story of the castle dates back beyond the 12^th century, and it’s fantastic that support from National Lottery players will keep this historic site relevant for future generations.”

It is anticipated that, once complete, the Castle will attract more visitors from outside of the district. This influx will support sustainable economic growth, drawing people into Newark’s vibrant town centre and encouraging increased footfall for its excellent independent retailers, both during the day and into the early evening.

During the initial phase of works, there will be public drop-in sessions with project staff to keep people informed and answer any questions. The first will take place on Tuesday 29 July, with further sessions planned in August and September, with both evening and weekend options available.

As a result of the initial investigation work, it has become clear that to safeguard the public, the Castle’s archaeological features, and the trees, Newark Castle and its grounds and gardens will be required to fully close to the public from Monday 7 July for one week. From Monday 14 July, a limited section of the gardens will reopen; however, the rest of the site will remain closed for the duration of the work taking place, which is expected to be until Autumn 2026.

Carys Coulton-Jones, Business Manager for Heritage and Culture at Newark and Sherwood District Council said, “Over the last few months we have tried to find alternative solutions, however it has been made clear from specialist advice that restricting access is essential to protect sensitive archaeological zones, tree root protection areas, and to ensure the highest level of public safety throughout the project. We sincerely apologise for the disruption it will cause us all. Like our residents and visitors, we are extremely sad that not all the grounds can be open for the duration of the work. However, upon completion, the Castle Gardens will once again be free to access to all, ensuring this cherished space can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for generations to come.”

Throughout the project and closure, we will post regularly on the Castle Facebook page and website with exciting updates and photographs of the progress. For more information on the closure, drop-in sessions, and the castle project in general, please follow Newark Castle on Facebook and Instagram, or visit www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/newarkcastle.