Lancaster

The town of Lancaster is known as the county town of Lancashire, England and is situated on the River Lune. Amongst the many attractions Lancaster has to boast of are a number of historical buildings. These include Lancaster Castle, a medieval castle, a Crown Court, and a Category C men's prison.

The castle buildings are owned by Lancashire County Council, which leases a major part of the structure to Her Majesty's Prison Service. Also within Lancaster is Lancaster Priory, the parish church located near the castle. The Priory is a Grade I listed building and an active Anglican church.

 

There are also a number of rural areas to explore within Lancaster, including Williamson Park featuring the Ashton Memorial as well as fountains, a butterfly house, a café, a children's play area, the Lancaster sundial, sculptures and a small folly known as the Temple. The park itself is dense with woodland, with many pathways through the trees that is popular with tourists and locals alike.

Lancaster Castle, Shire Hall, Castle Parade, Lancaster LA1 1YJ (01524) 64998
Built on the site of a series of Roman forts, Lancaster Castle is unique in that it is still used as a court and prison.
In addition to the number of criminals who have passed through its doors, numerous Royals have visited the castle, including Robert Bruce, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Visitors can still visit some parts of the castle, but as a working court and prison, some areas aren’t open; unless, of course, you break the law.

Lancaster Maritime Museum, Custom House, St Georges Key, Lancaster LA1 1RB (01524) 382264
Housed in the former Port of Lancaster Customs House and warehouse buildings, Lancaster Maritime Museum celebrates Lancaster’s rich maritime and natural history.
Showcasing Lancastrian shipbuilding and sailor’s artefacts, two period room settings, and a model of a barge that carried passengers down the Lancaster Canal; the museum also offers a number of family-friendly events throughout the year.