Rogues & Vagabonds at Newcastle Castle

Price: Free with your annual pass

This spring, Newcastle's Castle Garth becomes the home of rogues, rule-breakers and colourful characters from our past — the thieves, tricksters and vagabonds who once lived and worked in the shadow of the castle walls.

Rogues & Vagabonds dives into the darker, more eccentric side of Newcastle’s history, revealing gripping tales of crime, punishment and survival. The Great Hall is transformed into a courtroom, the medieval Gaol explores justice and incarceration, and visitors are invited to step into the story themselves.

Answer the call to become a Newcastle Castle Rogue by creating your own outlaw alias and taking on a series of roguish challenges throughout the castle. Along the way, uncover extraordinary stories, meet notorious characters, and experience the castle as it has never been seen before — bold, mischievous and full of intrigue.

What to expect?

• Discover the darker, more eccentric side of Newcastle’s history
• Explore Castle Garth through the stories of thieves, tricksters and vagabonds
• Step inside a Great Hall courtroom, where justice was once decided
• Delve into crime and punishment in the medieval Gaol
• Learn about the Newcastle Witches and the fear, superstition and trials that surrounded them
• Uncover the story of the infamous Black Jackey Johnson, one of Newcastle’s most mysterious characters
• Become a Newcastle Castle Rogue by creating your own outlaw alias
• Take on fun, interactive roguish challenges throughout the castle
• Experience gripping tales of rebellion, survival and life on the fringes
• An immersive, hands-on adventure for families, history lovers and curious minds

📅 Runs 14th February – 1st June