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

Autumn Artisan Fair

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September

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

October Garden Mornings

Tuesdays ~ 7th, 14th & 21st October - 10am - 1pm

10am – 1pm Set against the stunning backdrop of the Welland Valley, Rockingham Castle’s grounds promise breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This autumn visitors can enjoy for a little longer, as we extend our Gardens opening throughout Tuesdays in October. Delight in an array of colour as the vibrancy of summer blooms give way to dazzling autumnal hues […]

Halloween Fun at Rockingham Castle

SAT 25th - SUN 26th & TUE 28th - THUR 30th Oct

Take part in spooky activities with the witches & wizards of Rockingham!

Candle Making with KB Premium Designs

Thursday 14 November - 11.30am - 2.30pm

Get creative this November with our hands-on workshops! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned crafter, join us for a fun, relaxing experience that’ll ignite your creativity. Candle Making with KB Premium Designs Date: Friday 14th NovemberTime: 11.30am – 2pmPrice: £60 per person Ready to light up your home with handmade candles? Join KB Premium Designs […]

Bauble Decorating with Catherine Shaw

Thursday 21 November - 10.30am - 12.30pm

Get creative this November with our hands-on workshops! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned crafter, join us for a fun, relaxing experience that’ll ignite your creativity. Bauble Decorating with Catherine Shaw Date: Friday 21st NovemberTime: 10:30am – 12:30pmPrice: £45 per person Join local artist Catherine Shaw in this relaxing, festive activity, painting three ceramic baubles. […]

Watercolour Workshop with Stephanie Johnson

Thursday 28 November - 10.30am - 12.30pm

Get creative this November with our hands-on workshops! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned crafter, join us for a fun, relaxing experience that’ll ignite your creativity. Watercolour Christmas Cards with Stephanie Johnson Date: Friday, 28th NovemberTime: 10:30am – 12:30pmPrice: £50 per person Looking to send out something truly special this holiday season? Join Stephanie Johnson […]

Festive Wreath Making

Tuesday 2nd December & Wednesday 3rd December

Create your very own Rockingham Wreath. Back by popular demand, we are hosting four Christmas Wreath making workshops across two days held here at Rockingham Castle. Held in Walker’s House Tea Room, our gardens team will guide you through every step of the process and help you create a beautiful, seasonal decoration to add more […]

A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story

Thursday 4th December

Rockingham Castle and the University of Northampton present A Christmas Carol – A Ghost Story Written by Charles Dickens, adapted by Mark Gatiss, and by arrangement with Nick Hern Books Performed by graduating students of BA Acting for Contemporary and Devised Performance As the cold, bleak Christmas Eve night draws in, the penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge […]