Popular floating pub set to be sold off after 40 years of business in town

27 August 2023 , 08:47

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The Castle Barge has been an iconic part of the town for four decades (Image: Laycie Beck)

Locals at an iconic floating pub are concerned for the future of their unique boozer as the owner has announced he is to sell the business.

The Castle Barge has been bobbing on the River Trent serving thirsty visitors for over four decades but the future is now uncertain.

Frank Dyson, 71, owner of the Castle Barge in Newark, has announced his own plans to weigh anchor, selling the business after 43 years at the helm and setting sale for a well-earned retirement, NottinghamshireLive reports.

The pub has been listed for sale at £325,000, which includes all fixtures and fittings, and has already attracted early enquiries from interested parties. Frank hopes to sell the Castle Barge so that he can enjoy life at a more leisurely pace and travel a bit more.

The Castle Barge is well known in the local area and it can be seen from the main bridge when entering the town, making it one of the first things commuters see when they get off the train at Newark Castle station. Retired Paddy Dickinson, 76, of Newark said: "I have been before but not for a while. When I went it was really good actually."

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Locals said it would be a shame if the Castle Barge were to leave the town (Laycie Beck)

His wife, Norma Dickinson, 73, added: "We walk down the river quite regularly and we can see it with all the flags and everything. It's a bit of an attraction. We like the castle and everything and walk by all that." A woman in her 30s who did not wish to be named said: "I've not been for a long time, the last time was probably a couple of years ago.

"It would be weird not having it there on the river as I see it on my way to work each day." Factory worker, Barry Johnson, 58, of Newark, said: "I've not been in a very long time. From what I remember it was quite busy, but this could have been back in the 80s in its early days the last time I went in. If it wasn't there it would be odd but I don't know if it would have a big impact to be honest but it would be a shame.Things have changed so much in the town."

A retired 74 year old Nottinghamshire resident said they have not been in the Castle Barge for "years and years." He said: "I rarely come into town for a drink or anything like that." He added that when he last went to the Castle Barge "it was very friendly and nice and a very happy atmosphere. It is part of the town now."

Laycie Beck