Rockingham Castle

Built by William the Conqueror on an even earlier site, often used by the monarch of the day until 1544 when Henry VIII leased it to the Watson family. Sir Lewis Watson bought the castle from James I in 1619. The castle sits high on its bluff, protected by the massive 13th century drum towers and later curtain walls, but most of the buildings are now domestic, and the mainly Tudor house shows a succession of periods, including the 13th century Hall and 17th century Long Gallery. Particularly fine collection of English paintings, 18th-20th centuries. Charles Dickens, a great friend, described Rockingham in 'Bleak House' , and dedicated 'David Copperfield' to Richard and Lavinia Watson.

Visitor Opening TimesBack to top

8 April-end May, Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays; June-30 September, Tuesday (except 5 & 10 June; 26 & 27 August), Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays. Grounds open at 12 noon, Castle opens at 1pm. Last entry 4.30pm.

Please contact the property for up to date opening times

Groups and special visitsBack to top

Set on a hill overlooking five counties, Rockingham Castle was built by William the Conqueror. The Castle was a royal residence for 450 years. In the 16th century Henry VIII granted it to Edward Watson and for 450 years it has remained a family home. The pre-dominantly Tudor building, within Norman walls, has architecture, furniture and works of art from practically every century including, unusually, a remarkable collection of 20th century pictures. Twelve acres of formal and wild garden command splendid views over the surrounding countryside. Charles Dickens was a regular visitor to the Castle and based Chesney Wolds in Bleak House on Rockingham. A comprehensive group pack is available with details of the guided tours available.

Wedding FacilitiesBack to top

Thank you for enquiring about the facilities here at Rockingham Castle for civil ceremonies, civil partnerships & wedding receptions.

Civil ceremonies, with a maximum number of 100 guests can be held in the Great Hall and Panel Room. The beautiful Rockingham parish church, St Leonard’s, stands in the Castle grounds just a short walk from the Castle which is available for blessings.

Drinks reception take place in Walker’s House, which is part of the Castle, the Great Hall or, if the weather is suitable, on the Terrace Lawn Terraced Lawn with the backdrop of the Castle & stunning views over the Welland Valley.

For a full reception Walker’s House is available which can seat up to 90 guests and with an evening buffet can cater for 150 guests. Walker’s House has a dining area, and separate bar and dance floor and further rooms are available if required. Our excellent in house caterers who can meet the most exacting requirements, together with an extensive range of wines for use with our table licence.

Should more space be required, possibly for a bigger party after the ceremony, a marquee can be attached to Walker’s House. The Castle and gardens are exclusively yours for the day; no other events take place simultaneously. A full pack is available on request or can be downloaded from www.rockinghamcastle.com

Corporate FunctionsBack to top

For centuries Rockingham Castle has entertained royalty and private guests within its ancient walls. The history and tradition still continue. The original Great Hall and Panel Room are available for exclusive dinners and small conferences. Walker’s House (built in 1655) offers comfortable conference and dining facilities including dining room, bar, dance area and meeting rooms. Family portraits and open fires provide the ideal setting for lunches, dinners, meetings, receptions and conferences. Outside there are eighteen acres of formal and wild garden. For larger events the Great Park with a private entrance is available. Extending to 120 acres of level grass land with a mains water supply. The site is suitable for a variety small and large visitor or private events. A full pack of information is available on request.