Newark Castle is currently closed due to the Gatehouse project and due to reopen in Winter.

“Historic stone castle with tall walls and arched windows beside a river, with a barge moored in the foreground.

Step into over 900 years of adventure at Newark Castle

Standing proudly at the gateway to Newark-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire, England for over 900 years, Newark Castle is a treasure trove of history.

Once a magnificent Norman palace, it played a key role in the British Civil Wars and became closely associated with the infamous King John, who spent his final days here in 1216 and passed away under very mysterious circumstances… 

Over the centuries, it has transformed from a royal stronghold to a romantic ruin that’s inspired artists and storytellers alike. Today, it’s a Grade I listed building and Scheduled Monument, and a fascinating historical site.

Newark Castle is currently closed due to ongoing works. This transformative project will help bring the Castle’s rich history to life through fascinating interactive displays, re-built rooms and new gallery spaces, accessible via a lift. Our Victorian gardens will also be enhanced with brand new lighting and wildlife friendly planting. To find out more, please visit our Castle Gatehouse Project page. 

Plan your day

Newark Castle

About the castle

Rooted in over 900 years of history, Newark Castle is more than a monument – it’s a living story. Thanks to major investment, it’s currently being transformed. The Gatehouse Project will unlock new spaces, immersive experiences, and stunning views, bringing the Castle’s story to life like never before.

Learn more about Newark Castle
A jester dressed in a bright red, blue, and yellow costume performs a plate-spinning trick with a child in a blue hoodie at Newark Castle.

Plan your visit

Newark Castle is expected to reopen late 2026, and we can’t wait to welcome you to what will be an exciting and interactive experience for the whole family! There will be brand new opportunities to get involved, learn, and explore this historical location. 

Plan your visit for reopening

Volunteer at the Castle

We are hosting a series of informal drop-in coffee mornings to learn more about volunteering at the Castle in 2026!

Learn about volunteering opportunities

Your experiences

Two Newark Castle researchers facing a computer screen talking and working

Volunteering

Research volunteers have been working together since 2023, investigating historical records and unearthing stories that we can’t wait to share with you!

Learn about volunteering
A couple in wedding attire stands on a riverside path near Newark Castle.

Venue hire

Discover beautiful historic spaces, colourful landscaped gardens, and new rooms for hosting your special event.

Hire the Castle
Five excited school children playing an interactive game with large building blocks outside.

Learning

We are working on an exciting new learning offer for autumn 2026. Find out more about what's to come!

Discover educational opportunities

Latest News

View of Newark Castle's curtain wall from the south side, across the river Trent

Newark Castle - Past, Present and Future

24.04.26

For nearly 900 years, Newark Castle has stood watch over the River Trent, shaping and being shaped by England’s history. In this newly researched talk by volunteers from the Gatehouse Project, explore the castle’s story from its medieval beginnings under Alexander the Magnificent and the dramatic final days of King John, through the upheaval of the Civil War and its later life as a Victorian pleasure garden. The talk also looks ahead, revealing the plans that will carry this iconic landmark confidently into the 21st century.

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