Newark Castle and Gardens
Newark Castle has weathered many historic storms. After the British Civil War, it was deliberately vandalised and as it stands now, partially destroyed, it acts as a reminder of Newark's turbulent history. It was also the scene of the death of King John in 1216. Find out more about King John.
This listed 12th century monument is set in beautifully maintained Green Flag winning gardens, with the River Trent flowing beside them. Designed by eminent Victorian landscape architect, H.E. Milner, the Grade II listed gardens were officially opened on 24th May 1889, the day of Queen Victoria’s 70th birthday.
Discover more about the fascinating story of Newark Castle in our 2020 Heritage Open Days video.
General visitor information
- open from 9am until dusk
- dogs are welcome if kept on a lead
- surfaced pathways through the Castle grounds are suitable for wheelchairs
- parking is available nearby
Castle Closures
Upcoming Castle closures will be listed here.
Sunday 27 August - Newark Festival ticketed event
Events
Palace at the Castle
Palace at the Castle is back, offering a spectacular selection of shows performed outdoors against the unique backdrop of Newark Castle. Join us in its stunning grounds this summer as we transport the magic of the theatre to this wonderful setting.
The Importance Of Being Earnest
Wednesday 30th August, 7pm
Picnic with friends and family and enjoy this exquisite new production of Wilde’s hilarious tale of doubles lives and mistaken identities presented in full period costume.
£19.00, £11 Child, £50.00 Family
Heritage Open Day: Creativity Unwrapped
Saturday 9 September, 10am to 4pm
Enjoy a day of fun activities in the Castle grounds in partnership with Polish Village for Heritage Open Day. A chance to experience a Polish harvest festival, and learn about the country's heritage and culture, along with the rich history of Newark Castle. The event will include polish heritage crafts, traditional Polish music by Birmngham band Poppies, and an opportunity to uncover almost 1000 years of Castle history.
Activities include:
• Castle-tastic tales with Newark Creates' Nicky Rafferty who'll share stories from foolish kings, fiendish queens, magic mayhem and murder
• Salt dough decorations with the National Civil War Centre: making salt dough decorations inspired by traditional custom polish bread
• Creative workshop and play with Polish Village
• Raffle to support fundraising for Polish Village
• Face painting
• Traditional Polish music by Birmingham band Poppies
• A collection for Newark Food Bank
• Stalls including candy floss, Polish food, and Polish clothing
• Tower Tours
Getting married at Newark Castle
We’ve licensed the Castle for weddings in order to help create an income that can be reinvested in the preservation of the listed building.
Find out more about getting married at Newark Castle.
Friends of Newark Castle
The Friends of Newark Castle are a group of volunteers who assist the council with the management and maintenance of the castle and gardens.
The groups represents different users of the castle and grounds and advises the council on how to meet their diverse needs. The friends meet monthly and new members are always welcome. Get in touch on newark.castle@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk or call 01636 655714.