We said it last week, but again thank you for reading. We hope the 'perks' get used and you try a few new local businesses you'd maybe not considered before, and you enjoy the short read.

There’s something reassuring about a small, independent bookshop just quietly getting on with things. No fuss, no big marketing push—just curated books on shelves and a door that’s open if you fancy coming in. That’s the impression you get from Newark Bookshop.

It doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. A few posts about new stock, the odd recommendation, a simple “why not pop in?”—and that’s kind of the point. It feels real. Familiar. Like it’s been here forever.

Independent bookshops like this do more than just sell books. They give a place its character. They support local writers, stock things you won’t always find online, and create small, everyday moments of connection—between people, stories, and the town itself.

And in a world where most of what we read is suggested to us by an algorithm, that matters more than we probably realise. There’s something different about picking up a book because you saw it on a shelf, or because someone behind the counter said it was worth a read. And even better it supports the kind of business every town needs.

Places like Newark Bookshop aren’t trying to compete with the big names on their terms. They offer something else entirely—something slower, more personal, and a bit more human.

And the truth is, once places like that are gone, they’re hard to replace so it’s worth making the effort.

Discover more here:
🌐 - https://newarkbookshop.co.uk/
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578265875523

From a brilliant field of 9 contenders and over 700 local votes, and the winner is…

🥇Farm to Fork! winning 26% of your votes

🥈J Cottier Family Butcher 23%

🥉 Richard’s quality meats 16%

One of the closest polls yet! Hopefully we have a good summer and the BBQ’s are lit to keep them all busy.

Keep an eye on our Newark Insider Facebook page for the latest poll.

We find and curate the offers from our town’s independent businesses.

Mention Newark Insider to redeem.

🚗 J&J Mobile Valeting
🎟️ 25% OFF if you re-book on the day 
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552384396558

🫶 Positive Pants - confidence & positive mindset development
🎟️ Free Online Group
🌐 www.positivepants.co.uk

🎭 Starlight Theatre Academy
🎟️ £10 off enrolment!
🌐 www.starlighttheatreacademy.co.uk

🎁 Serendale - Handmade Gifts by Local Artists
🎟️ 1st Birthday Offer - First 5 customers April 4th have a chance to win a free goodie bag
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/SerendaleUK/

🏠 Perfection Interiors
🎟️ 20% discount on all fabrics & 15% discount on roller blinds!
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555229844603

💋 For the Love of Earth - Eco skincare, well-being & aromatherapy products
🎟️ 10% off for readers (quote INSIDER10) & free delivery in NG24!
🌐 https://www.fortheloveofearth.co.uk/

🍗 Farm to Fork butchers (Newark Market - varying days, check FB page)
🎟️ Huge Range of 5 items for £20!
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/FarmToForkMarketButchers

🚗 AM Auto’s - Mechanic
🎟️ £20 off any service or repair!
🌐 www.amautosnewark.co.uk

🇮🇹 Talk In Italy - Learn Italian
🎟️ Quote Newark - 10% off for NEW students on any course!
🌐 www.talkinitaly.com

🍰Meringue Jane - Home Bakery specialising in Japanese sponge cakes
🎟️ Free ‘treat bag’ with every order (till April)!
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/MeringueJane

🌿 Mowtivated Garden Care
🎟️ 10% off Jet Washing!
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583224125464

We are looking for independent businesses that want to reach more Newark residents with offers you may even be running already! Get in touch to discuss getting them in front of Newark Insider readers - [email protected]

💍 NEW BUSINESS - Eterna Bella
📍10 Stodman Street, Newark
⏰ Official Launch - April 3rd 9:30-6pm
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582052634347

An exciting brand new bridal boutique coming to Newark on Trent. We offer private appointments, customisable bridal wear and a passion for making bridal dreams come true.

📍Easter Funday with Beaumond House - Newark Royal Market
⏰ Friday 3rd April - 10am-3pm
🌐 https://www.beaumondhouse.co.uk/

Join us in Newark Marketplace this Good Friday for games and prizes to be won including delicious Cream Tea. It’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy the day and to support Beaumond House raise vital funds for local hospice care.

📍 Seed Bomb Easter Egg Sessions - Sconce and Devon Park
⏰ Thursday 2 April - 11am - 12.30pm
🌐 https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/parks-activities/

You'll be so eggs-cited to help the pollinators this year by making seed bombs with the Park Rangers and Environmental Officers. Give our insects the ultimate Easter present in either your garden, window box or plant pot!

Want to feature your business, sponsor a section or something else? Email: [email protected]

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