Unlocking Newark's Soul:
A Journey Through Time, Heritage, and Hometown Pride 

 I’m David Fargher—a proud resident of Newark-on-Trent for over 40 years, local photographer, founder of Newark on Trent Photographs, NewarkMap.co.uk, and NewarkGuide.co.uk, and author of two books celebrating the town’s history and architecture.

​

I’m not a historian. I don’t wear tweed, I don’t have a monocle, and I don’t work for the council. I’m just a bloke with a camera, a keyboard, and a deep love for this town. My interest in Newark’s history was sparked by my wife about 12 years ago, and since then, I’ve been hooked—wandering the streets, asking questions, and sharing what I find.

The aim of this project is to preserve the essence of our town's past for generations to come and to bring the history of our town to life, creating a bridge between the past and the present, sharing information, groups, events etc

For any questions, updates or corrections, please contact me on the below, or the contact form Here​​

​

But....... Why??
 

During the Covid lockdowns, I created a Facebook group called Newark-on-Trent Photographs. It started as a way to share the beauty of our town with those stuck indoors. What began with a few photos turned into a vibrant, positive community of over 15,000 members.

​

From there, I built NewarkMap.co.uk, an interactive map with over 260 historic points of interest. It had nearly 100,000 visitors in its first year. But I’ll admit—it wasn’t the most user-friendly thing in the world.

​

So I built something better: NewarkGuide.co.uk.

​

 ​

NewarkGuide.co.uk: Your Digital Key to Our Town's Treasure Chest

Now, about NewarkGuide.co.uk – this isn't just a side project; it's a mission. I've poured countless hours into building a comprehensive resource that brings Newark to life online. What will you find there? Well, where do I even begin?

​

This website is a free resource for residents and visitors alike. It’s packed with:

• Historical facts and forgotten legends

• Stories behind buildings, streets, and people

• Community groups, volunteering opportunities, and visitor info

• Events, curiosities, and photo galleries

​

It’s more than a website—it’s a bridge between past and present. It helps people reconnect with the soul of Newark. Because when you know your town’s story, you start to feel part of it.

* Historical Information Galore: From the Roman roads that criss-cross our landscape (yes, we were quite the hotspot back then!) to the dramatic events of the English Civil War that left their scars on our very castle walls, the site is brimming with fascinating historical tidbits. You can delve into the stories of our ancient buildings, discover forgotten curiosities, and even learn about the myths and legends that have shaped our town's character (including, perhaps, the truth about those supposed tunnels under the market square – nudge, nudge, wink, wink, read the book!).

* Groups, Events & Volunteering: This is where the heart of Newark truly beats. NewarkGuide.co.uk is a central point for discovering the incredible array of community groups that make our town such a vibrant place. Looking for a walking group to explore the beautiful riverside paths? Perhaps a book club, a photography society, or a local history enthusiasts' gathering? It’s all there! We list upcoming events, from the bustling market days and seasonal festivals to more intimate workshops and performances at the Palace Theatre. And for those with a generous spirit, we highlight various volunteering opportunities, making it easy for you to lend a hand and contribute to the collective good of our town. Want to help out with Newark in Bloom, keeping our floral displays looking magnificent? Or perhaps join the Friends of Sconce and Devon Park, helping to maintain one of our most historically significant green spaces? The guide is your gateway.

* Connecting Past and Present Residents: I truly believe that knowing our past helps us appreciate our present and build a better future. The guide features stories and photographs that resonate with both long-standing residents, evoking fond memories, and newcomers, offering a deep dive into what makes Newark so special. It's about letting people reconnect with the sheer breadth of history and beauty that we have around us, fostering a sense of continuity and shared identity.

​

The Books
 

All this led to the creation of two books—written with humour, heart, and a deep sense of civic pride.

​

Newark-on-Trent: A Sometimes Witty Journey Through Time

​

A cheeky, conversational romp through Newark’s history—from mammoth hunters to fibre broadband. From Roman roads to Civil War sieges, Victorian industry to modern oddities, this book is your time-travel ticket through Newark’s rich and occasionally eccentric past.

 

With humour and heart, I unearths the stories that shaped the town, one curious century at a time

It’s written like a chat in the pub, not a dusty textbook.​

Bricks, Beams and Banter

​

Buildings don’t just stand—they speak.

 

This volume explores Newark’s architectural gems, from timber-framed inns and Georgian townhouses to the only Odinist temple in England. Each chapter reveals the tales behind the town’s most characterful structures, told with the same wit and warmth that made the first book a local favourite.

​

These books are available at newarkguide.co.uk/shop,

 

Also in local shops like the Civil War Centre, Governor’s House, Newark Bookshop, Waterstones Newark and Hardey’s Farmshop.

The Wonderful Weave of Newark's Community

Speaking of community, let me tell you, Newark boasts an absolutely phenomenal network of dedicated people. It’s not just the big institutions; it’s the countless smaller, grassroots groups that genuinely make a difference every single day.

These groups, and the dedicated individuals within them, are the lifeblood of Newark. They embody the very spirit of civic pride, demonstrating that by coming together, we can actively shape and improve our shared home. It's about celebrating the heritage that unites us, and building on it for generations to come.

More Than Just a Market Town

For those of you considering visiting, or if you’ve just moved here and are still figuring out where the best pasty is (spoiler: it's a fiercely debated topic), let me tell you, Newark isn’t just another dot on the map. We are steeped in a history that would make many a grand city blush.

Where else can you wander around a magnificent ruined castle that bore the brunt of a Civil War siege, then pop over to a perfectly preserved Georgian market square that still hosts bustling markets? We’ve got the stunning Parish Church of St. Mary Magdalene, with its soaring spire dominating the skyline, and a network of charming streets just begging to be explored. And don't forget the National Civil War Centre, a truly immersive experience that brings our turbulent past to vivid life.

But it’s not just about the past. Newark is a vibrant, living town. We’ve got fantastic independent shops, cosy cafes perfect for a cuppa and a natter, and some cracking pubs where you can still find proper ale and proper conversation. We're perfectly placed on the Trent, offering beautiful riverside walks and the chance to watch the world drift by (literally, if you're watching the boats).

The Heart of the Matter: Civic Pride

And this brings me to something incredibly important: civic identity and pride. It’s not just about knowing your town’s history; it’s about feeling a part of its ongoing story. When we understand and appreciate the heritage around us, we start to see our town not just as a place we live, but as a place we belong.

It's about knowing that the ground beneath your feet has witnessed centuries of triumphs and tribulations. It’s about understanding the resilience of the people who came before us and built this town. And it’s about taking pride in our shared spaces, our community events, and the unique character that makes Newark, well, Newark!

When we embrace our civic identity, we don't just become residents; we become guardians, storytellers, and champions of our town. We support our local businesses, we cherish our historical sites, and we contribute to making Newark an even better place for future generations. It’s a bit like being part of a very large, slightly eccentric, and incredibly resilient family. We might bicker about parking, but when it comes down to it, we’re all in this together, and we’re all proud to call Newark home.
 

So, whether you’re a lifelong Newarkonian or a curious visitor, I urge you to take a moment. Look around. Reconnect. Dive into NewarkGuide.co.uk to discover the rich tapestry of our town. And yes, pick up a copy of "Newark on Trent: A Sometimes Witty Journey Through Time" – not just because I wrote it (though that would be lovely), but because it might just help you see our incredible town with fresh eyes.

Let’s reignite that civic pride, shall we? Let’s celebrate the sheer breadth of history and beauty we have around us. Because Newark isn't just a town; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of stories, and we're all a part of it.

 

You can hear my radio interview with BBC Nottingham here all about Civic pride (and Newark Banksy)

​

 

​

​

​

​

​

 

 

​​​
 

My final thought

​

So whether you’re a lifelong Newarkonian or a curious visitor, take a moment. Look around. Reconnect.

Dive into NewarkGuide.co.uk to discover the rich tapestry of our town.

Pick up a copy of the books—not just because I wrote them (though that would be lovely), but because they might help you see our incredible town with fresh eyes.

Let’s reignite that civic pride.
Let’s celebrate the sheer breadth of history and beauty we have around us.
Because Newark isn’t just a town—it’s a story. And we’re all part of it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​

​​