Newark Castle Gatehouse on a blue sky day

About the Castle

Rooted in over 900 years of history, Newark Castle is more than a monument – it’s a living story. 

Newark Castle has been an iconic landmark since its construction in the mid-12th century. Built by Alexander, Bishop of Lincoln, commonly known as Alexander the Magnificent, the Castle has witnessed centuries of change, from its origins as an Anglo-Saxon settlement to its construction and transformation into a grand stone palace. Part of this still stands today. The detailed carved stonework and wide spiral staircases are all clues to the opulence and importance of Newark Castle’s early years.

As one of the most significant historical structures in Newark-on-Trent, the Castle’s story is rich and varied, serving many roles through the ages, from the bishop’s palace to a court of law, a cattle market, and even a coal wharf. 

Newark Castle is also home to one of England’s most intriguing historical moments – the death of King John in 1216, who passed away here under mysterious circumstances. Did he eat too many peaches? Was he poisoned by rebelling barons? Or did he die of dysentery?  

Painting of the Castle Gatehouse by Henry Hadfield Cubley, showing people in Edwardian clothing walking through the castle guardians
Civil War re-enactment solider with a smoking cannon.

In the 1640s, during the British Civil Wars, Newark Castle was fiercely besieged three times but remained loyal to the Royalist cause. The marks of battle are still visible along the riverside, where cannonball scars from the brutal bombardments tell the story of a town caught in the midst of turmoil.

Learn more about this turbulent period at the National Civil War Centre.

 

Though partially dismantled in 1648, the castle continued to play an important part in the town’s story. In the 18th and 19th centuries it contained stables, a blacksmith’s shop, a bowling green, public baths, and Newark’s first library.

The Castle was later restored between 1845 – 1848 by architect Anthony Salvin, making it the first ruin in Britain to be restored at public expense. A short while later in the 1880’s the grounds and gardens were designed by Henry Earnest Milner to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee. 

Historic stone castle with tall walls and arched windows beside a river, with a barge moored in the foreground.
Aerial view of Newark Castle ruins in Nottinghamshire, England, showing stone walls along the River Trent, green lawns, mature trees, and nearby town buildings.

Today, Newark Castle stands as a Grade I listed building and Scheduled Monument with beautiful formal gardens which visitors still enjoy and visit today.

The Castle is currently undergoing a transformative project, to restore the Gatehouse and bring its history to life in new ways. Visit our Castle Gatehouse Project Page to find out more.