Newark-on-Trent and its environs
Newark, a little-known but quietly beautiful market town, sits on the banks of the River Trent and is steeped in history. Being a Royalist stronghold, it was besieged during the English Civil War.
Today, in more peaceful times, the town is internationally-famed among professional buyers and collectors for its antique shops and centres. It hosts the bi-monthly International Antique Fair at the Newark Showground, where other prestigious events and activities also regularly take place.
St Mary Magdalene, Newark’s medieval parish church with its magnificent, towering octagonal spire, is one of the largest and finest parish churches in the country. A hole visible in the spire marks the spot where the shot from a Parliamentarian cannon purportedly struck the church in 1644 during the Civil War.
Newark has something for everyone, whether it’s a visit to one the numerous retailers – both chain and independent – or to the thriving market, exploring the castle ruins, a river boat ride, a night of culture or entrainment at the Palace Theatre, a visit to the Newark Air Museum or to the upcoming (2015) new National Civil War Centre.
The town and its surrounding area are steeped in English brewing history, currently enjoying a revival. The immediate area now boasts several excellent microbreweries and Newark has re-established itself on the map as having a range of establishments offering Real Ale.
Newark is conveniently located for Southwell with its racecourse, magnificent Minster and National Trust Workhouse, Sherwood Forest and The Major Oak, The National Holocaust Centre and Museum at Laxton, The National Trust properties at Belton House, Grantham; Clumber Park and Mr Straw’s House, at Worksop and the multiple attractions in nearby, historic Lincoln and vibrant Nottingham.
The Lions and Newark-on-Trent offer the perfect combination of a more unusual choice for an interest-filled midweek or weekend break in comfortable, welcoming surroundings, the opportunity to snap up antiques and collectables at surprisingly attractive prices and a base from which to explore a fascinating but less-frequented, historic corner of the English countryside.