Lancashire Police Museum
Located in the historic Lancaster Castle, the Lancashire Police Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of law enforcement in the county. The museum tells the story of the Lancashire Constabulary from its formation in 1836 to the present day, through a variety of interactive exhibits, displays, and artefacts.
Visitors to the museum can learn about the challenges faced by early police officers, from dealing with public disorder to investigating crimes. They can also see examples of uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by the police over the years, as well as learn about some of the most infamous cases that have been investigated in Lancashire.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Victorian Prison Cell Block. This cell block was in use until 1911, and visitors can now step inside and experience what it was like for prisoners in the Victorian era. The cells are cramped and dark, and the conditions are very harsh.
Another highlight of the museum is the Crime Scene Investigation Exhibition. This interactive exhibit allows visitors to try their hand at solving a crime scene.
Visitors are presented with a variety of clues and evidence, and they must use their skills of deduction to figure out what happened.
The Lancashire Police Museum is a great place to visit for people of all ages. It is an educational and informative experience, and it is also a lot of fun. The museum is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10.30am to 4.00pm, and admission is free.
Here are some additional tips for visiting the Lancashire Police Museum in Lancaster:
- The museum is located inside Lancaster Castle, so visitors will need to purchase a ticket to enter the castle grounds. However, admission to the museum itself is free.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there is a lift to the upper floor.
- The museum is suitable for children of all ages, but some of the exhibits may be too disturbing for very young children.
- The museum offers guided tours for groups, which can be booked in advance.
- The museum has a small shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, such as books, postcards, and gifts.
I hope this blog post has encouraged you to visit the Lancashire Police Museum. It is a fascinating and informative place to learn about the history of law enforcement in Lancashire.
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If you are looking for a holiday cottage with easy access of Lancaster, ring 07785944194 or enquire here to book Lothlorien Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) What is the Lancashire Police Museum at Lancaster Castle?
The Lancashire Police Museum is a fascinating museum located within Lancaster Castle’s former prison, specifically in the A-wing of the historic penitentiary. The museum showcases the rich history of Lancashire Constabulary from 1839 to the present day through 16 captivating exhibits housed in former prison cells. Visitors can explore displays covering police training, forensic development, famous local cases like the Buck Ruxton murders, and various police departments, including the mounted branch, dog unit, and firearms team.
2) What are the opening times for the Lancashire Police Museum?
The Lancashire Police Museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10:30am to 4:00pm throughout the year, with last admission at 3:45pm. The museum closes for lunch between 12:30pm and 1:30pm. During the summer months (July to August), the museum also opens on Saturdays with the same hours. No advance booking is required for individual visitors – you can simply turn up during opening hours.
3) How much does it cost to visit the Lancashire Police Museum?
Admission to the Lancashire Police Museum is completely free for all ages. There are no entrance fees, making it an excellent value family attraction in Lancaster. The museum also offers free 30-minute guided tours throughout the day during opening hours. For group visits with adults or children, advance booking is recommended by contacting policemuseum@lancashire.police.uk.
4) Where is the Lancashire Police Museum located, and how do I get there?
The museum is located at Lancaster Castle, Castle Parade, Lancaster LA1 1YN. The castle is easily accessible from the M6 motorway – exit at Junction 34 if travelling from the north, or Junction 33 from the south. Lancaster’s park and ride service from Junction 34 is a cost-effective option, with the China Street stop just a 5-minute walk from the castle. Public car parks are available within 300m of the castle entrance at Castle Hill, St Mary’s Parade, and Dallas Road.
5) Is the Lancashire Police Museum wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the Lancashire Police Museum is not currently wheelchair accessible as access is only by stairs with no lift available. The museum apologises that visitors who use wheelchairs, have mobility issues, or are pushing buggies cannot currently access the exhibits. However, assistance dogs are welcome inside the museum. The museum is located on Lancaster Castle hill, with steep approaches from all directions and cobblestone pathways.
6) What can I see at the Lancashire Police Museum exhibits?
The museum features 16 fascinating exhibits spread across former prison cells, covering Lancashire Constabulary’s history, uniforms, gallantry awards, forensic development, and specialist departments. Highlights include a mock custody suite with interactive exhibits, the infamous Buck Ruxton murder case display with an original bathtub from the crime scene, a children’s uniform try-on area, and exhibits on modern policing careers. Each cell tells a different story of Lancashire policing from the Victorian era to today.
7) Can children visit the Lancashire Police Museum?
Yes, the Lancashire Police Museum is perfect for families with children of all ages. The museum offers interactive exhibits specifically designed for young visitors, including an area where children can try on police uniforms. The displays are engaging and educational, helping children learn about policing history and modern police work. The museum also welcomes school groups and offers educational programmes, though advance booking is required for group visits.
8) What famous cases are featured at the Lancashire Police Museum?
The museum showcases several infamous Lancashire criminal cases and how police solved them using developing forensic techniques. The most popular exhibit focuses on the 1935 Buck Ruxton double murder case, featuring a replica bathroom with the original bath from Dr Ruxton’s Lancaster house. The museum also displays how technological advances and scientific breakthroughs helped Lancashire police solve various historical crimes throughout the decades.
9) Does Lancashire Police Museum offer guided tours?
Yes, free 30-minute guided tours are available throughout the day during museum opening hours (Thursday and Friday, 10:30am-4pm). These tours are led by knowledgeable volunteers who provide additional insights into the exhibits and Lancashire policing history. The museum also hosts special talks with serving and retired police officers, such as sessions with current officer Janet Radcliffe discussing various aspects of modern policing.
10) Can I visit other parts of Lancaster Castle with my Police Museum visit?
Yes, your visit to the Lancashire Police Museum can be combined with exploring other parts of historic Lancaster Castle. The Police Museum, Witches’ Exhibition, and castle courtyards can be accessed without a separate guided tour. However, to see the full castle interior, you’ll need to book a separate guided castle tour. Lancaster Castle offers regular tours throughout the week, making it easy to experience both the museum and the medieval castle’s rich 1,000-year history in one visit.
Finally
If you are looking for a holiday cottage with easy access of Lancaster, ring 07785944194 or enquire here to book Lothlorien Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands.