The Old Lodge, Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire

This fine four-bedroom house lies in Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, a short walk from the town’s historic Royal Market. Thought to date from the Georgian period, a series of light-filled living spaces define the house, including a serene sitting room with a vast bay window. To the rear, an eco garden room, designed by Richard Haig Architects, has exposed brick detailing and a Jotul log burner. It opens onto two peaceful gardens, with access to a brick and timber-clad home office. The shops, bars and restaurants of Newark are within easy walking distance, while Nottingham and Lincoln are both a short train ride away.



The Tour



A gated driveway with parking for two cars forms the approach to the house. A glazed vestibule leads to a smart front door with stained-glass panels. Timber floorboards painted in a chequerboard pattern lead to a generous sitting room, filled with light from a bay window that stretches across the exterior wall. A cast-iron fireplace occupies a central position, while narrow shelving traces the upper walls.



A dining room lies adjacent. It has a box bay window and dado-height wall panelling. A bright breakfast room leads through to the kitchen. The latter is defined by a considered material palette; stainless steel units complement Shaker-style cabinetry topped with solid walnut, and there is slate flooring underfoot. Appliances include a Britannia range cooker and SMEG appliances, and there is a separate larder.



In the vast garden room, which is designed to sustainable principles, a series of skylights are set into a pitched ceiling. Exposed stonework lines one wall, and a red brick archway frames an interior window. To each side, walls of glazing open onto the gardens, and limestone flooring with underfloor heating runs throughout. On this floor there is also a large snug (which would also be suitable as an additional bedroom) and a Jack-and-Jill shower room.



A landing with a pretty stained-glass window leads to three double bedrooms on the first floor. In the principal, a box bay window captures leafy treetop views, and an en suite bathroom has a porcelain-tiled shower and dual washbasins. The second bedroom has an attached dressing room, while a third has fitted storage.



There is a shared bathroom with white metro tiling, and a roll-top bath has an overhead shower. An additional WC sits adjacent.



In the garden, an insulated brick and timber-built home office has a cheerful yellow door.



Outdoor Space



Two pretty courtyard gardens sit to the rear of the house. Designed by Chelsea Flower Show Gold winning designers, their borders brim with an array of mature trees, shrubbery and are inspired by the Jim Thompson Garden in Bangkok. A decked area in front of the garden room is perfect for sitting out and the other for al fresco dining.



The Area



Newark-on-Trent is a historic market town; today the Royal Market occupies the central square five days a week, and butchers, bakers and independent cafés are all within a short walk of the house. The town’s namesake, the River Trent runs along its western border, and is the setting of the dramatic 12th-century Newark Castle. Footpaths follow the river’s bank as it meanders its way to Nottingham. Just a few minutes walk away is the inspiring Coreset arts organisation, a dynamic creative hub hosting free exhibitions, workshops, talks and cultural events. The Art Deco Palace Theatre, a historically important parish church and the National Civil War Centre are also nearby. Newark hosts a popular Book Festival every year. Newark is bidding to be Town of Culture 2028.



The surrounding countryside is home to several excellent pubs and restaurants, including The Olive Branch at Clipsham, the Six Bells at Witham on the Hill and the Two Michelin Starred Restaurant Sat Bains. The beautiful Southwell Minster is a short drive away, while the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest are a 40-minute drive away. For longer excursions, the expansive moorlands and spa towns of the Peak District are less than an hour and a half away by car.



There are several schooling options nearby, including Barnby Road Academy Primary and Nursery, Highfields independent school and Witham St Hughs Academy Primary.



Newark Northgate rail station is a 15-minute walk away and runs direct trains to King’s Cross in around an hour and 11 minutes. Trains also run directly to York in 45 minutes and to Newcastle and Edinburgh. Newark Castle station is also close by, with services to both Nottingham and Lincoln in less than 30 minutes.



Council Tax Band: F