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Frequently Asked Questions

Twelfth Night- Thursday 26th June 2025

When is the event?
It takes place on Thursday 26th June 2025 in the Castle grounds, between 7:00pm – 9.15pm (approximate finish).

When do the gates open?
The gates open at 6:00pm for you to get into the grounds.

Can I buy tickets on arrival?
Limited Tickets will be available on a arrival. This is subject to availability so please check the website closer to the date. If the event is sold out there will not be tickets available on the day.

Do I need a seat?

Yes, bring your own low backed seat or picnic blanket. We do not provide seating for the performance. A picnic blanket area is usually reserved at the front of the stage. You will be directed by the performers where you should set up.

Do I need to print my tickets?
You can either print your tickets or show them on your phone or device.

I’m a Historic Houses member, how do I organise tickets? 

We regret that Historic Houses members do not receive free entry for this event.

I have a 2 for 1 voucher I wish to use, how do I organise tickets?

We regret that there are no 2 for 1 vouchers accepted at this event.

Is there an onsite car park? 

Yes, this a large onsite car park which is a five minute walk from the performance area.  There are a small number of accessible car parking spaces also available. Please ask for directions to this car park on arrival.

I need to be dropped off and picked up?

You will need to be dropped off by our visitor car park, and collected from the same area.

Do I have to pay for parking?

No, car parking is included in your ticket.

Is the Castle open? 

No, the Castle is closed for this event.

Can I buy something to eat at the event? 

Yes, there will be a small catering outlet offering hot drinks and cold drinks. You are welcome to bring your own picnic with you as well.

What happens if it is raining?

The show must go on! The performance will continue in all but the worst weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions – Halloween Fun

What is the event?

Halloween Fun is designed for families and children to enjoy some spooky fun over the half-term holidays. We have carved pumpkins through the Castle, with a crossword trail for children to fill in. We also have a trail through our formal gardens and some other halloween activities to enjoy.

We do not aim to frighten children and do not have loud noises or people jumping out. There is low light, UV Lights and flashing lights through the Castle. We have halloween decorations and fake cobwebs throughout. Our guides are in fancy dress and will tell spooky tales if asked. If you, or your children need any extra reassurance before visiting, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the estate office team.

When does the event run?
Halloween Fun runs on Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th, Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th & Thursday 31st October.

The event begins at 11am. Last entry to the Castle is 3.30pm and the gardens, grounds and event close at 4pm.

Can I arrive at any time during the day?

Yes. However, please allow yourself enough time to fully enjoy the event. The last entry to the Castle is 3pm and the gardens, grounds and event close at 4pm. We recommend at least two hours to visit.

What is the difference between ticket options?

We have two ticket types to choose from: Castle, Event and Grounds and Event and Grounds only.

Castle, Event & Grounds allow you full access to all elements of the event. The Crossword Trail in the Castle, the Pumpkin Trail in the gardens and pumpkin rolling. You also have access to the wider Castle grounds, Gift Shop and Tea Rooms.

Event and Grounds only does not allow entry to the Castle. You still get to take part in the Pumpkin trail in the gardens and the pumpkin rolling. You also have access to the wider Castle grounds, Gift Shop and Tea Rooms.

Please be aware, many of the Halloween decorations are in the Castle itself.

Can I purchase tickets on arrival?

Yes, you can purchase tickets on arrival but, as tickets are limited we are advising everyone to pre-book in advance. We may not have space left if you arrive without pre-booking your tickets.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No, you can either show them on your mobile device or printed. We do need to see the confirmation barcode on arrival to scan you in.

I am an Historic Houses member, can I use my membership for this event?

Historic House memberships are not accepted at this event.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, there is parking which is included in your ticket price. Parking is on grass but we have mesh underneath the top layer to stop anyone getting stuck.

There are also a small number of accessible parking spaces on site.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, well behaved dogs are allowed in the grounds as long as they are kept on a lead and picked up after them. With the exception of assistance dogs, we do not permit dogs into the Castle itself. There is outdoor seating for our tea room, and a small indoor area where dogs are permitted. Please speak to staff if you are not sure where you can go.

Are pushchairs allowed inside the Castle?

We are afraid that we do not allow pushchairs through the Castle itself. A small number of storage spaces are available for pushchairs whilst you are in the Castle.

Is Walkers House tea room open?

Yes, the tea room is open where you can purchase a range of light lunches and treats.  A full menu will be available once finalised. We do not take bookings in the tea room.

Please note: No food or drinks are allowed to be taken into the Castle.

When is the Walkers House tea room open?

The Tea room opens at 11am and final food orders are at 3pm.  The tea rooms closes at 4.00pm.

I have a question regarding accessibility, what should I do?

You can find our more information regarding accessibility arrangements on our website here

If you still have a question, please contact the Estate Office team who will be able to help.

I am a carer/I am bringing a carer with me, do they get a free ticket?

Yes, carers get free entry to the event. We ask that all paid-for tickets are purchased first and the conformation/order number is sent through, by email, to the estate office with proof of the carers status. We will then add the additional carers ticket on. Please allow 2 working days for this to be completed.

Autumn Artisan Market Traders

Outdoor Music Events – 15th & 16th August 2025

When is the event?
Motown at Moonlight takes place on Friday 15th August in the Castle grounds, between 7:00pm – 10.00pm (approximate finish).
Abba & Queen Tribute takes place on Saturday 16th August in the Castle grounds, between 7:00pm – 10.00pm (approximate finish).

When do the gates open?
The gates open at 5:30pm for you to get into the grounds.

Can I buy tickets on arrival?
Tickets may be available on a arrival. This is subject to availability so please check the website closer to the date. If the event is sold out there will not be tickets available on the day.

Do I need a seat?

Yes, bring your own low backed seat or picnic blanket. We do not provide seating for the performance. You will be directed by the performance company where you should set up.

Do I need to print my tickets?
You can either print your tickets or show them on your phone or device.

Is the event wheelchair friendly?
The event takes place outside on a grassed area. The ground is quite flat and shouldn’t pose issues to wheelchair users. We have a disabled portable toilet in the toilet block close to the performance area, as well as a disabled facility in the permanent toilets a 2-3 minute walk from the stage.

We also have disable parking facilities, please make sure you display your blue badge.

I am visiting and need a carer with me, how do I add the extra carers ticket?

We offer a complimentary carers ticket to visitors who would not be able to visit the Castle without the assistance and support of a carer. This can be organised on arrival to the Ticket Office or in advance if you wish to pre-book your tickets.

When pre-booking, please purchase any paid for tickets and email your order confirmation and proof of carer status or explanation for needing the additional support to estateoffice@rockinghamcastle.com. The office team can then attach an additional ticket to your order. Please be aware that the office team may ask some additional information to organise this ticket.

If you are bringing a carer with you, some accepted examples of proof include: :

• A letter from the local authority confirming receipt of Carer’s Allowance or another document naming you as a carer from the local authority.
• Documentation from a GP indicating that you are registered as a carer.
• A registered carer card from another recognised scheme (e.g. CredAbility Access Card, CEA Card, work ID badge etc.)

Should you have any questions regarding what you can provide as proof, please contact the estate office.

If you are a carer and you wish to visit Rockingham on your own, not just as a helper to a person in your care, you would need to purchase an admission ticket at the standard price.

I‘m a Historic Houses member, how do I organise tickets? 

We regret that Historic Houses members do not receive free entry for this event.

I have a 2 for 1 voucher I wish to use, how do I organise tickets?

We regret that there are no 2 for 1 vouchers accepted at this event.

Is there an onsite car park? 

Yes, this a large onsite car park which is a short minute walk from the performance area.  There are a small number of accessible car parking spaces also available. Please ask for directions to this car park on arrival.

I need to be dropped off and picked up?

You will need to be dropped off by our visitor car park, and collected from the same area. A drop off and collection point will be in place, please follow our stewards directions.

Do I have to pay for parking?

No, car parking is included in your ticket.

Is the Castle open? 

No, the Castle is closed for this event.

Can I buy something to eat at the event? 

Yes, there will be a small catering offering where you can purchase hot food, hot drinks cold drinks and light snacks. You are welcome to bring your own picnic with you as well, including alcohol. We ask that you tidy up all rubbish and either take this with you, or use the bins provided.

Are there toilets?

Yes, there will be plenty of toilets on site. We will have our main toilet unit open, and a bank of portable toilets too. Both sets of facilities have accessible toilets, and baby changing.

What happens if it is raining?

The show must go on! The performance will continue in all but the worst weather conditions.

Can I bring my dog?

We don’t recommend bring your dog with you, unless it is an assistance dog. It is quite a busy and loud environment and may not be comfortable for your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions – Jousting

When does the event run?
The event runs Sunday 15th June between 11am – 4pm.

The Castle will be open from 11.30am, with last entry at 3.00pm.

The Joust itself will start at 2.30pm.

Can I arrive at any time during the day?

The gates open at 11am, you are welcome to arrive at any point from then on; please be aware that the joust itself takes place at 2.30pm.

Can I purchase tickets on arrival?

Yes, you can purchase tickets on arrival but, as tickets are limited we are advising everyone to pre-book in advance. We may not have space left if you arrive without pre-booking your tickets.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No, you can either show them on your mobile device or printed. We do need to see the confirmation barcode on arrival to scan you in.

I am an Historic Houses member, can I use my membership for this event?

Historic House memberships are not accepted at this event.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, there is parking which is included in your ticket price. Parking is on grass but we have mesh underneath the top layer to stop anyone getting stuck.

There are also a small number of accessible parking spaces on site.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, well behaved dogs are allowed as long as they are kept on a lead and picked up after them.

Are pushchairs allowed inside the Castle?

We are afraid that we do not allow pushchairs through the Castle itself. A small number of storage spaces are available for pushchairs whilst you are on the tour.

Is Walkers House tea room open?

Yes, the tea room is open where you can purchase a range of light lunches and festive treats.  A full menu will be available here once finalised.  We will also have some outdoor units serving burgers, ice creams and hot and cold drinks.

Please note: No food or drinks are allowed to be taken into the Castle.

When is the Walkers House tea room open?

The Tea room opens at 11am and final orders are at 3pm.  The tea rooms close at 3.30pm.

I have a question regarding accessibility, what should I do?

You can find our more information regarding accessibility arrangements on our website here

If you still have a question, please contact the Estate Office team who will be able to help.

I am a carer/I am bringing a career with me, do they get a free ticket?

Yes, carers get free entry to the event. We ask that all paid-for tickets are purchased first and the conformation/order number is sent through, by email, to the estate office with proof of the carers status. We will then add the additional carers ticket on. Please allow 2 working days for this to be completed.

Frequently Asked Questions – Victorian Christmas

When does the event run?

The event runs Thursday 28th – Sunday 1 December and Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 December. 

On 28th & 29th November and 5th & 6th December (Thursdays and Fridays during our event) we will be operating guided tours of the castle that will run every 15 minutes throughout the day, between 11am – 5pm. Tours last around 45 minutes and are led by one of our Castle guides who are in costume and in character as members of the Victorian household such as the Housekeeper, Governess, Butler and Footman.

On the 30th November and 1st, 7th & 8th December (Saturday and Sundays during our event) the Castle will be open for a freeflow visit. The Castle will be open from 11am – 5pm with entry time slots every 15 minutes, to allow a staggered entry of visitors. There will be guides in costume and character in each room to tell you their preparations for Christmas. There may even be a special guest to meet in the Castle!

Can I change my tour time?

You will need to contact the Estate Office to see if its possible for us to adjust your tour time. Please be aware that many time slots will be sold out close to the event so it may not be possible.

Can I arrive at a different time to my ticket?

Yes, you can arrive earlier than your entry time to enjoy something to eat or to explore the Gardens. We open from 11am.

Please make sure you check the time of your tour closely as we do ask that everyone is prompt. Tours will start on time and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate you at a later time if you are late for your tour or entry slot.

Can I purchase tickets on arrival?

Yes, you can purchase tickets on arrival but, as tickets are limited for the Castle tours we are advising everyone to pre-book in advance. We may not have space left if you arrive without pre-booking your tickets. Tickets can be purchased from the Heated Marquee in the Castle Courtyard.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No, you can either show them on your mobile device or printed. We do need to see the confirmation barcode on arrival to scan you in.

I am an Historic Houses member, can I use my membership for this event?

Historic House memberships are not accepted at this event.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, there is parking which is included in your ticket price. Parking is on grass but we have mesh underneath the top layer to stop anyone getting stuck.

There are also a small number of accessible parking spaces on site. Please ask our car parkers to be directed to the correct place.

Are dogs allowed?

With the exception of assistance dogs, dogs are not permitted into the Castle or tea rooms.

Will there be a Christmas Market?

Victorian Christmas is not a Christmas Market event. Our Castle Gift Shop will be open during Victorian Christmas and fully stocked with festive decorations and presents!

Are pushchairs allowed inside the Castle?

We are afraid that we do not allow pushchairs through the Castle itself. A small number of storage spaces are available for pushchairs whilst you are on the tour.

Is Walkers House tea room open?

Yes, the tea room is open where you can purchase a range of light lunches and festive treats.  A full menu will be available here once finalised.  We also have a heated marquee in the Castle courtyard offering the same range of festive treats and lunches to enjoy, provided by Roaming Giraffe.

Please note: No food or drinks are allowed to be taken on the Castle tour.

When is the Walkers House tea room open?

The Tea room and marquee opens at 11am. Lunch is served between 12noon – 2pm, with tea, coffee and cakes orders taken until 4.30pm.

I have booked a Castle tour ticket, does this include access to the grounds?

Yes, access to the grounds is included in your tickets. You will be able to pick up a map of the grounds from the courtyard marquee.

I have a question regarding accessibility, what should I do?

You can find our more information regarding accessibility arrangements on our website here

If you still have a question, please contact the Estate Office team who will be able to help.

I am a carer/I am bringing a career with me, do they get a free ticket?

Yes, carers get free entry to the event. We ask that all paid-for tickets are purchased first and the conformation/order number is sent through, by email, to the estate office with proof of the carers status. We will then add the additional carers ticket on. Please allow 2 working days for this to be completed.

Frequently asked questions for Outdoor Theatre

Pride & Prejudice- Thursday 24th July 2025

When is the event?
It takes place on Thursday 24th July 2025 in the Castle grounds, between 7:00pm – 9.30pm (approximate finish).

When do the gates open?
The gates open at 6:00pm for you to get into the grounds.

Can I buy tickets on arrival?
Limited Tickets will be available on a arrival. This is subject to availability so please check the website closer to the date. If the event is sold out there will not be tickets available on the day.

Do I need a seat?

Yes, bring your own low backed seat or picnic blanket. We do not provide seating for the performance. A picnic blanket area is usually reserved at the front of the stage. You will be directed by the performers where you should set up.

Do I need to print my tickets?
You can either print your tickets or show them on your phone or device.

I’m a Historic Houses member, how do I organise tickets? 

We regret that Historic Houses members do not receive free entry for this event.

I have a 2 for 1 voucher I wish to use, how do I organise tickets?

We regret that there are no 2 for 1 vouchers accepted at this event.

Is there an onsite car park? 

Yes, this a large onsite car park which is a five minute walk from the performance area.  There are a small number of accessible car parking spaces also available. Please ask for directions to this car park on arrival.

I need to be dropped off and picked up?

You will need to be dropped off by our visitor car park, and collected from the same area.

Do I have to pay for parking?

No, car parking is included in your ticket.

Is the Castle open? 

No, the Castle is closed for this event.

Can I buy something to eat at the event? 

Yes, there will be a small catering outlet offering hot drinks and cold drinks. You are welcome to bring your own picnic with you as well.

What happens if it is raining?

The show must go on! The performance will continue in all but the worst weather conditions.