Newstead Abbey, Nottinghamshire – A Review

Nottinghamshire is well-known for the legend of Robin Hood, but the county holds many other treasures. One of its most popular is Newstead Abbey, a place of stunning beauty and rich history. With its grand house, ancient ruins, and sprawling gardens, Newstead offers a peaceful escape and a fascinating journey into the past.

Here I want to share with you why it makes a great day out and the history contained within its walls, from its beginnings as a monastery to its time as the home of the famous Romantic poet, Lord Byron. I will share about the beautiful gardens, the facilities available, and practical information to help you plan your day.

The History of Newstead Abbey

Newstead Abbey’s story is a long and colourful one, stretching back over 850 years. It wasn’t always the grand house we see today. Its journey through Nottinghamshire history is marked by monks, kings, and one very famous poet.

From Priory to Private Home

The story begins in the 12th century, around 1170, when King Henry II of England founded an Augustinian priory on the site. This religious house, known as Newstead Priory, was established as a way for the king to seek forgiveness for the murder of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. For nearly 400 years, Augustinian monks lived, worked, and worshipped within its walls, surrounded by the quiet forests of Sherwood.

Everything changed in the 1530s during a period known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries. King Henry VIII broke away from the Catholic Church in Rome and seized the properties of religious orders across England. In 1539, Newstead Priory was closed, and the monks were forced to leave. The following year, on the 26th of May 1540, Henry VIII granted the estate to Sir John Byron of Colwick. The Byron family transformed the former priory, converting the church and monastic buildings into a grand family residence. The impressive west front of the original church was kept and still stands today as a dramatic ruin attached to the main house.

Lord Byron: The Romantic Poet at Newstead

For generations, the Byron family owned Newstead. However, the most famous resident was George Gordon Byron, the 6th Lord Byron, who inherited the estate in 1798 at the age of just ten. He developed a deep love for his ancestral home, often calling it “the Abbey.” Lord Byron, the celebrated Romantic poet, lived at Newstead from 1808 to 1814.

Byron’s time at Newstead was filled with creativity, parties, and eccentric behaviour. He was known for his wild lifestyle, famously described as “mad, bad, and dangerous to know.” He kept a tame bear while he was a student at Cambridge and even brought it to Newstead. He also had a beloved Newfoundland dog named Boatswain. When Boatswain died from rabies, Byron was heartbroken. He buried his loyal companion in the garden and built a large monument for him, with a moving poem inscribed on it. This tomb is bigger than the one Byron has for himself and can still be seen today when you visit.

Facing mounting debts, Lord Byron sold Newstead Abbey in 1818. Though he left England and never returned, his spirit and stories remain a core part of the Abbey’s identity. His private apartments have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary poet.

After the Byrons

After Byron sold the estate, it passed through several hands. Each new owner left their own mark, adding to the house and gardens. The Webb family, who owned it for many years, undertook significant restorations and developments. Finally, in 1931, the estate was given to the Nottingham Corporation. It was opened to the public, ensuring that its history and beauty could be shared with everyone. Today, Newstead Abbey stands as a testament to its varied and fascinating past.

Exploring the Grounds and Gardens

A visit to Newstead Abbey is as much about the outside as the inside. The estate covers over 300 acres of parkland, with a variety of gardens, woodlands, and lakes. Each garden has its own unique character, offering new discoveries at every turn.

The Gardens

Near the house, you’ll find a collection of beautiful and historic gardens.

• The Rose Garden: A classic and fragrant space filled with countless varieties of roses. In the summer months, it’s a stunning display of colour and scent.
• The Japanese Garden: Created in the early 20th century, this garden is a tranquil paradise. It features stone lanterns, bamboo, a zen garden, and a traditional tea house. Winding paths lead you over bridges and past ponds filled with carp, creating a sense of peace and harmony.
• The Sub-Tropical Garden: This colourful garden is known for its exotic plants and vibrant flowerbeds. It’s a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the sunshine.

Woodlands, Lakes, and Waterfalls

Beyond the formal gardens, the wider parkland is well worth exploring. There are several trails that wind through ancient woods and along the edge of the estate’s lakes. The main lake, known as the Upper Lake, is home to swans and other waterfowl.

A highlight for many visitors is the series of waterfalls and cascades that connect the lakes and ponds. The Eagle Pond, located near the house, is another historic feature, named for a bronze lectern in the shape of an eagle that was found in the lake. It was believed to have been hidden by the monks during the Dissolution.

Wildlife at Newstead

The grounds of Newstead Abbey are a haven for wildlife. The most famous are the peacocks that roam freely across the estate. These magnificent birds are used to visitors and can often be seen showing off their spectacular feathers. You might also spot swans, geese, ducks, and other birds around the lakes. For keen birdwatchers, there is a small birdwatching hut where you can sit quietly and observe the local birdlife.

The large park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a family picnic. There is plenty of open space for children to run around, making it a great day out for all ages.

Visiting Newstead Abbey Today

Planning a trip to Newstead Abbey is simple. Here is some practical information to help you make the most of your visit.

Opening Times and Admission

Newstead Abbey’s grounds are open daily throughout the year, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The historic house has more limited opening times, which usually change with the seasons. It is typically open on weekends and during school holidays. It’s always a good idea to check the official Newstead Abbey website for the most up-to-date opening times for the house before you travel.

There is a charge for parking, which is the main way to contribute to the upkeep of the grounds if you are not entering the house. In the summer, a car park ticket costs around £6. Admission to the house is a separate charge. An adult ticket is usually about £10, while children under 16 have a reduced price.

For frequent visitors, an annual pass offers great value. It typically includes free parking for a year. This is an excellent option for local families. Entry is sometimes free during the winter, except for special events.

Facilities on Site

Newstead Abbey is well-equipped to welcome visitors.

• Café: There is a lovely café on site where you can relax with a drink and a bite to eat. It serves a range of hot and cold food, including sandwiches, cakes, and freshly baked sausage rolls. The café is accessible for wheelchair users.
• Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a selection of souvenirs, books, and gifts. You can find items related to Lord Byron, the abbey’s history, and the surrounding nature.
• Toilets and Baby Changing: Toilets, including accessible facilities and baby changing rooms, are available for visitors.
• Play Park: For younger visitors, there is a children’s play park where they can burn off some energy.
• Picnics: You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy in the grounds. There are many beautiful spots to lay down a blanket and enjoy your lunch.

How to Get to Newstead Abbey

Newstead Abbey is located in Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire, just off the A60 road.

• By Car: The postcode for your sat nav is NG15 8NA. From Nottingham city centre, the drive is about 11-12 miles and takes around 30 minutes. The Abbey is also easily reached from nearby cities like Derby (27 miles) and Chesterfield (23 miles).
• By Public Transport: You can take the Trent Barton ‘Pronto’ bus service from Nottingham, which stops near the entrance to the estate in Ravenshead. From the bus stop, it is about a one-mile walk through the park to reach the house. There is also a train station in Newstead village, which is a longer walk away.

A Perfect Day Out

Newstead Abbey offers a truly wonderful experience. It combines centuries of Nottinghamshire history with the natural beauty of its gardens and parkland. Whether you are interested in the life of the Romantic poet Lord Byron, want to explore the stunning architecture of his ancestral home, or simply wish to enjoy a peaceful walk among the peacocks and waterfalls, Newstead has something for everyone. It is a place where you can relax, learn, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

A peacock video for you

If you visit let me know what you think in the comments below and don’t forget to check out Ben’s blog for more reviews and posts from him.

Newstead is great for adults as much as kids, so if you are in the area, check out the amazing Nottingham Spas. Why not pop and visit them too. There are lots of other things to do in Nottinghamshire with kids like Newark castle, farms and much more as this county has so much to do!

If you would like to stay in the area, there are lots of budget places to visit in Nottinghamshire and even just over the border in Derbyshire, there are places like Chatsworth, which is beautiful. There are some lovely Christmas Markets in Derbyshire, including at Chatsworth, so it is well worth a visit while you are in the area.

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