About Rockingham Castle

This remarkable castle, built on the instruction of William the Conqueror, has been my family’s home for 450 years. Prior to the Watson’s ownership the Castle was held by the crown. There are very few other homes that have been continuously occupied for nearly 1000 years and within that time been owned by just one family since being relinquished as a royal Castle. I think this is a particularly extraordinary aspect of Rockingham’s long and fascinating story. The Castle is now home to my wife, Elizabeth and our children, all of whom enjoy the Castle as I did as a child.

I very much hope that you enjoy looking at our website and that you will visit the Rockingham soon.

James Saunders Watson

Upcoming Events

All events

Teddy Bears Picnic

Bring your Teddy Bear and a picnic to enjoy in the castle gardens and follow the teddy bear trail!

Jousting & Medieval Living History Village

Knights and Horses combine for hard-hitting and fun Medieval Jousting display on the Tilting Lawn.

“Romeo & Juliet” By the Lord Chamberlain’s Men

Come and enjoy ‘Romeo & Juliet’ in the Castle Gardens, performed by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men.

Food & Drink Fair

Enjoy a wide selection of local produce in the Castle Gardens, all made by independent manufacturers from the local area.

Fairy Day

NEW for 2023! Join us for Fairy Day! We are so excited to introduce Fairy Day to our events calendar this year. Come along to Rockingham for an enchanted day filled with magic! Embark on an adventure in the Wild Garden to find the Fairy Doors, meet the Rockingham Woodland Fairies and complete the Toadstool […]

Sense & Sensibility

Join us in the formal gardens for a performance of Sense & Sensibility by Chapter House Theatre Company.

21st Century ABBA & Queen

21st Century ABBA and Queen are coming to Rockingham to perform all the classic songs that will get you dancing and singing along!

Artisan Market

The Artisan Market will showcase the best of food, drink and crafts from the local area.