Lancaster Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom, with a history dating back nearly 1,000 years.
It was originally built as a Norman fortress, and over the centuries it has served as a royal castle, a court of law, and a prison.
Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into England’s rich and complex past.
A castle with a storied past
Proudly standing on Castle Hill, Lancaster Castle is one of the most prominent structures on Lancaster’s skyline.
It is also the oldest standing structure in the city.
Lancaster Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, and it quickly became one of the most important castles in the north of England. It was a strategic location, guarding the crossing of the River Lune, and it was used as a base of operations for the Norman conquest of the north.
The castle was also a royal residence, and it was visited by many English monarchs over the centuries. In 1399, King Richard II was imprisoned in Lancaster Castle after being overthrown by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke. Richard was eventually murdered in the castle, and his death marked the end of the House of Plantagenet.
In the 17th century, Lancaster Castle was used as a prison for the Pendle witches, who were accused of witchcraft and sentenced to death. The witches were hanged at Gallows Hill, just outside the castle walls.
Lancaster Castle continued to be used as a prison until 2011, when it was closed due to budget cuts. Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can tour its many historical buildings, including the Shire Hall, the Crown Court, and the prison cells.
Judges’ Lodgings
Judges’ Lodgings is a Grade I listed building close to the castle in Lancaster, England.
It is the oldest existing townhouse in Lancaster and was once used by judges when they attended the sessions of the Assize Court.
Judges’ Lodgings is a Grade I listed building in Lancaster. Today, it is a museum that tells the story of Lancaster’s rich history.
The house was built around 1625 by Thomas Covell, Keeper of Lancaster Castle and famous for locking up the Pendle Witches during the infamous Lancashire Witch Trials.
In 1826, the house became a lodging for the travelling ‘Red Judges’ of the Assizes Courts. Dressed in their scarlet robes, the Judges decided the fate of murderers, forgers, and highwaymen at Lancaster Castle.
The Judges’ Lodgings is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture. It features a grand staircase, elegant period rooms, and a beautiful courtyard.
The museum also houses a fine collection of Gillows furniture, made by the Lancaster-based cabinet makers who were renowned throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
Visitors to the Judges’ Lodgings can learn about the history of the house and the people who lived there. They can also explore the period rooms, see the Gillows furniture, and visit the Museum of Childhood.
The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including family activities, talks, and workshops.
What to see and do around Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle is a fascinating place to visit, with something to offer everyone. Here are just a few of the things you can see and do at the castle:
- Take a guided tour: The best way to learn about the castle’s rich history is to take a guided tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the castle, and they will share with you many interesting stories and facts.
- Visit the Shire Hall: The Shire Hall is the oldest surviving building in the castle, and it is where the county courts were held for centuries. The hall is now home to the Lancaster County Museum, which has exhibits on the history of Lancashire and the castle itself.
- Tour the prison cells: The prison cells at Lancaster Castle are well-preserved, and they give visitors a glimpse into what life was like for prisoners in the 19th and 20th centuries.
- Climb to the top of the castle tower: The castle tower offers stunning views of Lancaster and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Lake District.
- Visit the Lancashire Police Museum: The Lancashire Police Museum is located in the former prison hospital. The museum has exhibits on the history of policing in Lancashire, and it is a great place to learn about the work of the police force.
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