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

National Garden Scheme – Open Gardens

Join us on Tuesday 24th June for Rockingham Open Gardens in collaboration with National Garden Scheme.

“Twelfth Night” By the Lord Chamberlain’s Men

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

Fairy Day

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

English Civil War Day

Join us on Sunday 20th July as we journey through time to 1643 and witness the Siege of Rockingham Castle. Will Sir Lewis Watson keep the Parliamentarians at bay?  Can he save Rockingham? Join Sir Lewis in the Castle Courtyard and find out exactly how he plans to defend Rockingham from Lord Groby’s Parliamentarian forces. Delight […]

Legends Live – Motown By Moonlight

Motown by Moonlight – Friday 15th August Step into the soulful sounds of Motown as we present “Motown by Moonlight” at Rockingham Castle! Lose yourself in the rhythm and groove of the legendary Motown era as our talented performers pay homage to icons like Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and Stevie Wonder as well as other […]

Legends Live – ABBA & Queen by Moonlight

ABBA & Queen by Moonlight – Saturday 16th August Get ready to dance the night away as we transport you back to the sensational era of ABBA and Queen! 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 “We Will […]

Autumn Artisan Fair

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