Newark Castle
Nottinghamshire, England
Photo: Stephen Ostler, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gallery: Richard Nevell, CC BY-SA 3.0 · Richard Nevell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Key facts
- Operator
- Newark & Sherwood District Council
- Condition
- Partial ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Newark Castle, 0.2 miles (straight-line)
- Note
- Free gardens; gatehouse tours select days
Pinpoint
Castle Gate, Newark-on-Trent, Newark NG24 1BG
Telephone 01636 655765
Newark Castle is where King John died in 1216, though what actually survives today is one tower and a stretch of wall, kept as free riverside gardens by the local council. It's less a castle to explore than a pleasant stop beside the Trent - reviewers visit for the flowerbeds and the view through the old window openings as much as the ruin itself.
At a glance
Who to know
King John · died here in 1216
Worth the trip
The view through the surviving castle window straight onto the River Trent - reviewers rate it the best photo spot on site.
Before you go
Extended renovation works have closed the castle and grounds for a long stretch (still shut as of an August 2025 review) - check current access before visiting; when open, it is free and dog-friendly.
What visitors say
Newark Castle reviews · 4.5 / 5 across 2,392 Google reviews
Reviewers consistently enjoy the riverside gardens and the walk around what remains of the castle, with several praising the tulip displays and views through the old windows over the Trent.
A recurring caveat is that only one tower and a stretch of wall are still standing, several walkways are locked off, and ongoing renovation work has closed parts of the site for extended periods; there are also no toilets or refreshments on site, though paid parking is nearby.
“Having visited before I would give this attraction 5 stars - however be aware that on my latest visit (August 2025) the castle and grounds are closed due to extensive renovations that could last several years!”- Paul Stowe, visitor review
Getting in - what Newark & Sherwood District Council says
New lift access provided; dedicated accessibility statement link available on site.
Taken from Newark & Sherwood District Council’s own website and read 28 July 2026 - check the current version. Access can change with building work, weather and staffing - if the visit depends on it, ring ahead.
Weddings at Newark Castle
Newark Castle is on our wedding roll because Newark & Sherwood District Council mentions weddings on their own site. Visit their site.
Comparing options? See every castle wedding venue in England, or the full UK wedding roll.
Dates, capacity, licensing and exclusivity change constantly and we hold none of it - treat this as a starting point and speak to the venue before you plan anything around it.
History
Norman period
A Norman palace that stood for over 900 years, most famously known as the place where King John died in 1216. It played a significant role during the Civil War before being transformed into a romantic ruin and later a Victorian pleasure garden.
Drawn from Newark & Sherwood District Council's own page.
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “There was a seperate building with toilets in and parking is across the other side of the canal and is only £3.70 for thd whole day.” - Solitaire
- Facilities
- “There is a lovely grassed large grassed area that would be good in the summer for picnics etc.” - Solitaire
Common questions about Newark Castle
Where is Newark Castle?
Newark Castle is in Nottinghamshire, England, at Castle Gate, Newark-on-Trent, Newark NG24 1BG.
Is Newark Castle free to visit?
Yes - Newark Castle is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by Newark & Sherwood District Council. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
Is Newark Castle dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at Newark Castle - one reviewer noted: “…for a picnic during clement weather . Dog friendly ( Always pick up after your dog ). No toilets on site or r…”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting Newark Castle?
The view through the surviving castle window straight onto the River Trent - reviewers rate it the best photo spot on site.
Is Newark Castle a ruin or still intact?
Newark Castle is a partial ruin - Free gardens; gatehouse tours select days.
