The Dark, Deathly History of Newark Castle

The Dark, Deathly History of Newark Castle

Newark Castle was originally built from wood. Not long after, during the 12th century, the structure was replaced with stone by the Bishop of Lincoln, nicknamed ‘Alexander the Magnificent’. To cut a long story short, the castle was then slighted in 1648 during the English Civil War, and restored in the 19th century.

The Death of King John

This ancient monument has a long history of blood murder, treason, and death, including the death of King John who died on 18th of October 1216, from dysentery after a large feast at Newark Castle. Not the most dignified way for a King to go, is it?

Newark Castle Sketch

Newark Castle features a torture chamber and various cells where some of the English Knight’s Templar were held during the 14th century. One of the cells features engravings of Templar symbols on the walls to give you a real feel of what happened here.

Engravings in the Dungeon of Newark Castle
Newark Castle Dungeon Engravings. Image:  Dr Alan P Newman / Atlas Obscura User

Newark Castle Dungeons

One of the cells was originally built as an oubliette, which is a dungeon only accessible with a hatch, essentially a trap door, from the ceiling. These cells were designed to imprison those destined for the oubliette forever. Many prisoners died in the oubliette, and visitors now often claim to have heard hushed voices, chants, echoes, and loud bangs. Some have even claimed to have witnessed stones and coins being thrown fro the shadows of this empty room. Flashes of light have been spotted during the night from the castle, and screams and cries have been heard from the curtain wall bordering the river.

Ghost of a Hanging Ranger at Newark Castle

After its restoration in the late 1800’s, Newark Castle was scheduled as an ancient monument with national importance. As a result, rangers are used to regularly maintain and care for the site, one of which was found hanging from the Kings bedroom area of the castle. Regular tours now operate at Newark Castle, and many guides have reported the sight of ghostly remains hanging from the ceiling, squirming around as if it struggles for breath. Many believe it is the spirit of the ranger, however, it is unknown as to why he hung himself, or why it was within the castle grounds.

Newark Castle

Visit Newark Castle, Nottinghamshire

At the time of writing this, parts of the Castle are under renovation, so tours are not available. However, when the renovation is complete, you can book a tour to see the dungeons for yourself via the Newark Castle website.

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