Nightlife in Newark

One of the latest additions to Newark’s pub scene, The Flying Circus is already a firm favourite, owing to its mix of real ale and craft beer from across the UK and beyond. Specialising in smaller breweries and bespoke batches of beer, they purposely don’t stock more mainstream brews, instead offering plenty of advice and feedback on which beer, ale or lager to try next.

Dating back to 1452, it’s hard not to appreciate the history of The Prince Rupert, thanks to its low ceilings, exposed beams and flagstone. Named after Prince Rupert, who was an important part of the local Civil War effort, the pub is now a popular watering hole offering a wide range of cask ales, a gin menu to make you weak at the knees and some fine pub grub.

If it’s beer you’re after, there are few finer pubs in the East Midlands than Just Beer. Living up to its simple name, they’ve served over 4,000 different beers from over 1,000 breweries since launching in 2010. Always pushing and promoting new and exciting beers, the pub is an exercise in simplicity with stripped back stone walls, a wooden bar and a dart board for entertainment.

Another stellar beer drinker’s haven is The Fox and Crown. Not only is it an excellent pub pushing a wide range of ales, lagers and real beers, plus a strong range of spirits, wines and soft drinks, but it’s also a well-stocked shop selling more than 70 different types of bottles and cans. Just down from the Palace Theatre, it’s the perfect place for a post-show pint and is just a short drive from our Newark hotel.

If you only go to one bar in Newark, make sure it’s the Water’s Edge. Nestled on the banks of the River Trent overlooking Newark Castle, the large, relaxed space is full of suck-you-in sofas, several terraces and balconies and even an indoor waterfall. The food is good, the cocktails are great, and the location couldn’t be any better.

If you want to get even closer to the water, you can head 200m up the river to the Castle Barge. Once a working grain barge, it’s now moored on the banks of the Trent and is a bustling bar and restaurant open until midnight, with regular pizza, wine and beer deals during the week making it easy on the pocket.

One of the most stylish bars in Newark, The Ram on Castle Gate dates as far back as the 15th century when it was originally a coaching inn. It has been extensively refurbished since then, you’ll be pleased to know, with the large leather-clad bar its impressive focal point, serving up a wide range of craft ales, fine wines and high-end spirits.