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.
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!
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!
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!
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
Newstead Abbey
Newstead Abbey Historic House & Gardens, Newstead Abbey Park, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG15 8NA, England
Tel: 01158763100
