Established around a 12th-century castle, Newark-on-Trent is a charming riverside city in Nottinghamshire. It lies on the route of a Roman road, the Fosse Way, which linked modern-day Exeter with Lincoln. During the English Civil War, it was the site of a significant Royalist victory under the rule of Prince Rupert.
Things to do in Newark-on-Trent
Topped by an octagonal spire is the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, a Grade I-listed building that dates back to the 12th century. Designed in a Gothic style, it features a reredos by Sir Ninian Comper and a unique painting depicting the Dance of Death. The church was restored in the mid-19th century by Sir George Gilbert Scott, who designed St. Mary’s Cathedral in Glasgow and London’s Albert Memorial.
Overlooking the River Trent is Newark Castle, which was originally established as a mint by Alexander of Lincoln in 1123. It was dismantled in the 17th century during the English Civil War and restored two centuries later. Listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, it is home to the Gilstrap Heritage Centre, which features exhibits about the castle’s history.
To learn more about the English Civil War, visit the National Civil War Centre, which explains the causes of the conflict and life in England during the period. There are also exhibits dedicated to the Roman, Viking and Anglo-Saxon history of Newark-on-Trent and the Iron Age torc that was discovered nearby in 2005.
Getting around Newark-on-Trent
Newark-on-Trent is around 40 minutes’ drive from Nottingham and one hour from Sheffield. Birmingham Airport is 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to the Newark Castle and Newark Northgate railway stations while the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.