Celebrating 950 years of living history

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 Rockingham soon.

James Saunders Watson

Upcoming Events

All events

Spring Artisan Fair

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th May

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

Jousting & Medieval Living History Village

Sunday 16th June

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

National Garden Scheme – Open Gardens

Tuesday 25th June / 11am - 7pm

Join us on Tuesday 25th June for Rockingham Open Gardens in collaboration with National Garden Scheme.

“Hamlet” By the Lord Chamberlain’s Men

Thursday 27th June

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

Fairy Day

Sunday 7th July

Embark on an adventure in the Wild Garden to find the Fairy Doors, meet the Rockingham Woodland Fairies and complete the Toadstool Trail.

RSPCA – Lets Rock Rockingham

Saturday 20th July

Come and join us for an epic day of rockin’ music and good vibes at Rockingham Rocks Live Music, Food and Drink Festival and Bike Show!

Little Women – Presented by Chapter House Events

Thursday 25th July / Outdoor Evening Performance

Join us in the formal gardens for a performance of Little Women by Chapter House Theatre Company.

Dinosaur Day

Sunday 4 August

NEW FOR 2024 Join the Dinosaurs at Rockingham on Sunday 4th August this year! You can meet a real life T-Rex and Stegosaurus, enjoy a baby dino meet and greet and watch the dinosaur displays. This event will be a roarsome day for all of the family and we look forward to seeing you there! […]

Legends Live – 21st Century ABBA & Elton

Friday 16th August

ABBA & Elton – Friday 16th August Get ready to dance the night away as we transport you back to the sensational era of ABBA and Elton John! Join us under the starlit sky at Rockingham Castle for an unforgettable evening filled with toe-tapping hits and timeless classics. From “Dancing Queen” to “Rocket Man,” experience […]