National Civil War Centre

Situated in Newark-on-Trent, the National Civil War Centre provides a compelling look into seventeenth-century Britain’s bloodiest conflict. Newark itself served as a vital Royalist stronghold for King Charles I, enduring three grueling sieges between 1643 and 1646 due to its key location along the River Trent and the Great North Road. The scale of this historical period is surprising. Proportionately, the British Civil Wars claimed more domestic lives than the First World War, wiping out roughly 3.5% of the population through fierce combat, severe famine, and devastating outbreaks of plague. During the town's final siege, trapped Royalists even minted their own emergency money inside Newark Castle. These distinct, diamond-shaped silver coins were crafted by melting down local household silver to pay soldiers on the front lines. Inside the museum, vibrant galleries bring this chaotic era to life. The World Turned Upside Down exhibit examines the radical political shifts of the time, featuring rare items linked directly to the trial and execution of King Charles I. Visitors can inspect an impressive collection of authentic arms and armor, from heavy pikeman breastplates to matchlock muskets and broadswords. Another stand-out display features the intricate wooden wheelchair used by Parliamentary General Sir Thomas Fairfax after he suffered debilitating battlefield wounds.