Newstead Abbey
Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
About Newstead Abbey
Any literature fans reading this? Well, we've got the perfect day out for you! A trip to Newstead Abbey will have you stepping back in time to the time of the flamboyant and notorious English Romantic Poets - Lord George Gordon Byron (aka Lord Byron!). Are you as excited as we are?!
Newstead Abbey is an ideal place for a family day out!
History of Newstead Abbey
King Henry II founded Newstead Abbey in the late 12th Century, and it was originally an Augustinian Priory. It was rebuilt and extended in the 13th Century before the Abbey was surrendered to Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. It became the ancestral home of the Byron family for over 300 years, most famously associated with the 19th Century poet Lord Byron. Financial difficulties led George Byron to sell the estate to Thomas Wildman and then African explorer William Frederick Webb. In 1931, Newstead Abbey was gifted to Nottingham City Council and is now a museum, preserving its rich history, stunning architecture and connection to the iconic poet himself - Byron.
Things To Do At Newstead Abbey
The Abbey is only open during the weekends and holidays, but the grounds are open during the week and on the weekends. Inside the Abbey, you'll find a number of artefacts that belonged to Lord Byron, such as manuscripts and portraits. Explore the private apartments of Byron, a Victorian Kitchen, medieval cloisters and the rooms in which the Webb family stayed.
Head outside to the formal gardens for a peaceful stroll. She walks in beauty with large lawns, a rose garden and a lovely Japanese garden. There's no shortage of things to explore. You'll find streams, waterfalls, and a lake with plenty of ducks and swans to feed, so make sure to pack some food for them! Keep an eye out for the resident peacocks and peahens strutting around, too - they're super cute. You can find a leaflet about the gardens, which will help you navigate the different areas around the glorious landscape. There's also a 'Newstead Tree Trail' you can follow; it's full of interesting information about a range of trees, including Byron's Oak.
There are plenty of seasonal events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year, from summer holiday specials and trails to drawing and watercolour masterclasses. There's something for the whole family to enjoy. They even host some poetry sessions where you can explore more of Byron's work! Sign us up! There's even an open-air theatre where you can watch iconic plays like Romeo and Juliet and Beauty and the Beast. Not forgetting the beautiful garden tours - they are well worth checking out. Need somewhere for the kids to burn off some extra energy? The play park is full of playground equipment for kids to run, jump, slide and swing around!
This historic building should be on your bucket list! With its rich history, stunning grounds and connections to iconic historical figures - it's an unforgettable day out for the whole family.
Why We Recommend Newstead Abbey
- This previous monastic house was home to it's most famous resident - Lord Byron
- Explore waterfalls, lakes and a Japanese garden
- Full of fascinating history to explore, including the poets private apartments
Step Into Lord Byron's World
Newstead Abbey isn’t just a historical site; it’s a time machine! Walk through the very halls where the legendary Lord Byron lived, wrote, and caused a stir. Inside, you’ll find priceless manuscripts and portraits, while outside, the gardens come alive with streams, waterfalls, and even a Japanese garden. Don’t miss the resident peacocks—they’re as flamboyant as Byron himself!
Journey Through Time: From Abbey to Ancestral Home
Newstead Abbey’s story is as rich as its grounds. Founded by King Henry II in the 12th century and later transformed into a family home, it’s been witness to centuries of change. Explore rooms filled with Byron’s belongings, wander through medieval cloisters, and imagine life as it was in Victorian times. A perfect blend of history, literature, and exploration awaits!
A Day of Drama At The Open-Air Theatre
At Newstead Abbey, the entertainment doesn’t stop at history. Throughout the year, the estate hosts open-air theatre performances, including classics like Romeo and Juliet. Add in seasonal events, poetry readings, and garden tours, and you’ve got a day that’s both culturally enriching and wonderfully relaxing. It’s a theatrical experience in the heart of a historical wonderland!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00
Park & Gardens
Daily
10:00 - 17:00
(last entry 16:00)
House & Abbey
Weekend, school & bank holidays
11:00 - 16:00
(last entry 15:00)
Café, Shop & Toilets
Daily
10:00 - 17:00
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (5-15) : Free
- Adult (16-18+) : £15.00
- Babies and Toddlers (0-4) : Free
House Admission
Kids go free with every paying adult.
Site Entry / Parking
All Day
Car – £6.00
Walkers & Cyclists – £2.00
Motorcyclists – £2.00
House Tour
Adults - £15.00
Kids (5-15) - £5.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Newstead Abbey by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Enjoy a hot or cold drink, sandwiches, cakes and other sweet treats in the cafe. They also offer a selection of vegan items, including vegan sausage rolls and cakes.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Newstead Abbey Historic House & Gardens
Newstead Abbey Park
Nottingham
Nottinghamshire
NG15 8NA
England
Tel: 01158763100
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
By Train
The closest station is Bulwell. It's a 25-minute taxi ride away.
By Bus
You can take the following buses: 17, 3B|THREES, 3C|THREES, 71 and 79.
By Car
It's off the M1 and A608. You can enter through the main A60 gate only.
By Tram
The closest tram station is Bulwell. It's a 25-minute taxi ride away.
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