Newark Castle

Newark Castle stands on the west bank of the River Trent in Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire. A mid-12th-century fortress begun by Alexander, Bishop of Lincoln, it began as a timber structure before being rebuilt in stone late in the same century. The castle was slighted in the 17th century during the English Civil War and later restored in two phases: first by architect Anthony Salvin between 1845 and 1848, then by the town corporation after they bought the site in 1889. It is protected as a scheduled monument and a Grade I listed building. The Gilstrap Heritage Centre once stood on the grounds, now replaced by the Newark Registration Office. The castle’s history includes a royal charter from King Henry I around 1135 granting permission to build a ditch and rampart. During the First Barons’ War in 1216, King John ordered its destruction, though the order was later withdrawn. Tradition records that John died at the castle on 18 October 1216 after eating too many peaches. The site also housed a mint established by the bishop in the 12th century. Visitors find grassy slopes and ruined stone walls that outline the original stronghold. The Gilstrap Heritage Centre, now the registration office, once displayed exhibits on the castle and the town’s Civil War past. The grounds include gardens open free of charge, and guided tours are led by the Castle Ranger. The castle overlooks the Fosseway, the ancient Roman road that once passed close by, adding to its historic setting.