The Governor's House Stodman St
A 551-year-old historic gem in Newark, offering delicious local food, a warm welcome, and a journey through centuries of stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for exploring
The Governor's House Stodman St
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 551-year-old historic gem in Newark, offering delicious local food, a warm welcome, and a journey through centuries of stories.
"A little gem! Amazing historic building, my favourite cafe in Newark. Such great coffee and food, delightful staff."
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of stairs to climb to explore all the historic levels! :athletic_shoe:
Ask for a Tour
The passionate staff offer amazing historical insights into the building. :star2:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 133 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Throughout the building
Explore a 551-year-old building with 1000-year-old beams and royal connections.
Homemade Delights
Cafe and dining areas
Indulge in delicious, fresh, locally sourced food, especially the bread and chutney.
Friendly Atmosphere
Cafe and common areas
Enjoy the warm welcome and genuine passion of the staff, making it a delightful experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Savor Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of stairs to climb to explore all the historic levels! :athletic_shoe:
Ask for a Tour
The passionate staff offer amazing historical insights into the building. :star2:
Dietary Needs? No Problem!
They are very accommodating for allergies and dietary restrictions. :seedling:
Book for Afternoon Tea
A popular choice for groups, offering plentiful sandwiches and cakes. 🍵
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of stairs to climb to explore all the historic levels! :athletic_shoe:
Ask for a Tour
The passionate staff offer amazing historical insights into the building. :star2:
Dietary Needs? No Problem!
They are very accommodating for allergies and dietary restrictions. :seedling:
Book for Afternoon Tea
A popular choice for groups, offering plentiful sandwiches and cakes. 🍵
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Governor's House for its exceptional blend of rich history, delicious homemade food, and incredibly friendly service. Many highlight the unique architectural features and the welcoming atmosphere created by the passionate staff. While the stairs can be a consideration, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit in Newark.
"My partner and I love this place. We travel to Newark from Grantham maybe every couple of months for a look round and found this place the first time we came. Previously we have only ever had a drink there and enjoyed the atmosphere and brilliant service. A couple of weekends ago we decided to treat ourselves to lunch. The food is lovely, all fresh and local sourced and very tasty. The freshly made bread was lovely and the home made chutney was the best I’ve ever tasted. The staff are so friendly and always welcoming. It feels like the staff genuinely are enjoying working there too which is great to see. I have a dairy allergy and found they were really kind and helpful. Although always funny ordering meat with vegan cheese! Love that people can just go up and play the instruments too… not that I did as I do not have a musical bone in my body but love the quirkiness of it! We don’t eat out very often now so it felt like a lovely treat Thanks again! Great place x"
Rachel Day
"The Governors house review.
We chose the Governors house as a perfect meeting place for afternoon tea with our party of six consisting of our American friends travelling from Edinburgh to London with a stop off in historic Newark and we were not disappointed. From the start we received a warm welcome from the proprietor who took us to the top floor where our afternoon tea table was set out, with fine China teacups and saucers, ready for us. Plentiful sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and unlimited tea and coffee were all brought to our table…..up several flights of ancient stairs.
We were able to relax and take our time in amazingly historic surroundings, where we were told King Charles the first had once stayed.
Our American friends who are great history enthusiasts were interested in the historical aspect of the building and our host kindly obliged with a potted history.
Situated just off the market place square, it was an ideal location to be able to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding building.
We would certainly recommend a visit for lunch or afternoon tea and will make a beeline for it when we visit Newark again."
Carol Evans
"So we all visited Newark for a change and happened upon this lovely little place ! The staff were amazing and the food was brilliant! Would definitely urge anyone visiting Newark to pop in and enjoy as we did ! A little gem !"
Paul C G Burrows
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Governor's House is conveniently located just off the Market Place square in Newark. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the town center. Parking is available nearby in public car parks.
Yes, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance of The Governor's House. Check local signage for the nearest options and their operating hours.
Newark Northgate and Newark Castle train stations are both within a reasonable walking distance. Local bus services also stop near the Market Place.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Governor's House is generally free, as it functions as a cafe and historical venue. You pay for food and drinks, but exploring the building's history is part of the experience.
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. It's best to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date times, especially if you're planning an early visit.
No, the historical aspects are integrated into the visitor experience. The staff are often happy to share stories and insights about the building's past.
Yes, booking is recommended, especially for afternoon tea or if you're visiting with a group, as it's a popular spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy delicious food and drinks, explore a historically significant building with ancient beams and royal connections, and soak in the friendly atmosphere. Some visitors mention playing instruments.
The building has several flights of stairs to access different levels, which may be a challenge for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to inquire about accessible areas when booking.
Yes, visitors are welcome to play the instruments available in the house, adding a unique and quirky element to the experience.
Absolutely! The building is steeped in history, with mentions of King Charles I staying there and ancient architectural features. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to share its past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They serve fresh, locally sourced food, including lovely bread, homemade chutney, cakes, pastries, sandwiches, and a full breakfast menu.
Yes, they are very accommodating for dietary needs, including vegan options.
The afternoon tea is a popular choice, featuring plentiful sandwiches, cakes, and pastries served with unlimited tea and coffee in fine china.
Many reviewers rave about the freshly made bread and the homemade chutney, with one calling it the best they've ever tasted.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture, ancient beams, and unique features like the 'King's drop toilet' offer many interesting photo opportunities. The charming cafe interior is also picturesque.
Focus on the architectural details, fireplaces with ancient beams, and the overall ambiance of the historic rooms. The food presentation is also very photogenic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit