Newark History

Taylor’s Fine Dining is set in the historic and picturesque town of Newark, located just off the A1 to the east of Nottinghamshire. It’s popular with tourists and locals alike due to its many heritage attractions, and we consider ourselves very lucky to have found a home here.

Along with the National Civil War Centre and Newark Air Museum, Newark Castle is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Now an atmospheric ruin steeped in history, this ancient castle has had many nicknames over the years, including ‘Guardian of the Trent’, ‘Gateway to the North’ or simply ‘The Old Grey Lady’.

The castle previously stood as a Saxon fortified manor but was replaced after 1073 when a motte and bailey earthworks Castle was built by Bishop Robert Bloet. The castle was famed for its role in the English Civil War, where it stood as a Royalist Stronghold.

Although most of the castle walls were destroyed, the Manor of Newark and the castle were protected by Queen Henrietta Maria until her death in 1669. In 1648, Newark Castle came under a new threat to become a stone quarry, after Colonel Thomas Howard tried to obtain the lease. Initially denied, he reapplied in 1667 but thankfully his request was again refused and the building remained as a stunning landmark.

Sadly, only one and a half sides of the castle remains, including the oldest part, a large gatehouse.

The castle has been complemented by a recent refurbishment to the gardens between the walls, which have been recreated to look like a glorious Victorian garden and was recently awarded the prestigious Green Flag award – the national benchmark for public parks and green spaces.

Taylor’s Fine Dining are lucky enough to enjoy views of the castle and gardens, which are just a stone’s throw from our front door.