Spotlight on Newark
This year a brand-new events programme titled ‘Spotlight on Newark’ aims to highlight the best of the town across the seasons. The programme will shine a light on what the town has to offer from food to heritage and much more.
Newark the place to be on Saturday 27 April
Small Business Showcase
The first in the Spotlight on Newark events programme is Small Business Showcase on Saturday 27 April between 10am until 3pm which will see the upstairs area of the Buttermarket host a wide range of local independent businesses, all offering a taste of their unique services, including the option to buy and try goods and pick up some discounts. In Newark we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to local independent businesses and this event plans to celebrate some of their work as they showcase their wonderful services all under one roof in this one-off special event.
The Plastic Ocean Show
Elsewhere in Newark on that day is an 18-metre-long inflatable whale which will be docked in the town centre and residents are welcome to take pictures and selfies. Although tickets are booked to go inside the whale, residents are still welcome to come see the amazing sight.
The show aligns with the Newark and Sherwood District Councils ‘Motion for the Ocean’ declaration, which highlights the urgent need to recognise that our ocean is in crisis and that local government has an essential role to play in recovering the health of our ocean.
Newark Castle Open Day
From 10am until 2pm, Friends of Newark and Castle Gardens will be hosting an open day at Newark Castle where visitors can explore and climb the tower and Gatehouse of the historic landmark for FREE, with no need to pre-book!
After climbing the 97 steps, visitors will be enchanted with the fantastic views of our wonderful historic town centre and the iconic River Trent as well as getting an up-close look at this very special building from within. And of course, the beautiful gardens at the Castle will be open for free as usual for all to enjoy.
While entry is free, a donation to Friends of Newark and Castle Gardens is welcome. The Friends group work hard, uncovering new fascinating facts and insights into Newark’s most iconic landmark. They also actively promote and raise money to enhance and preserve the wonderful site and new members are always welcome! For more information, go to: www.newarkcastlefriends.co.uk/
Race to the Castle Paddle Board event
On the River Trent near Newark Castle, is the Race to the Castle Paddle Board event. Watch the paddle boarders as they arrive at the finish line with stalls and food also nearby. Racers start in Nottingham and travel 40km down river. It's the longest downriver race in the UK!