Geograph - photograph every grid square

The strategic situation of Newark at the intersection of the Fosseway and the Great North Road crossing the River Trent is obvious and the town was founded in the 10th century by King Edward the Elder. A motte-and-bailey castle was established by Bishop of Lincoln, Robert Bloet in 1073 and following his death in 1123, Bishop Alexander built a stone castle 1123-1133 before being reclaimed by the crown. Henry III returned the castle to the Bishops of Lincoln after King John’s death there in 1216 and building continued by Bishop Henry de Burghersh c1320-1340 and Bishop Thomas Rotherham 1471-1480.

After the Reformation it passed to the crown in 1547 before was altered as a residence for the Earl of Rutland in 1581. Stoutly defended by a Royalist garrison in 1644 and 1646, but slighted by the victorious Parliamentarian troops. Restored by Anthony Salvin 1845-1848, purchased and restored by Newark Corporation in 1889 it was restored and consolidated by The Department of the Environment 1979-1990 and is now owned by Newark Town Council.

The ruins are Grade I listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument