Lancaster Castle

Come to Lancaster Castle for a truly unique experience. Owned by the monarchy for over 600 years, this impressive and inspiring castle was used as a prison from the Middle Ages until very recently and is still used as a court. What better place to learn about history, from the Lancashire Witch Trials of 1612 to the riots of the 19th-century? This is a wonderful opportunity to see a courtroom and learn how the law has operated over the centuries.

Learning sessions

(Tuesdays only for KS2)

Led by Lancaster Castle tour guides.

This morning guided tour explores the administration of the law through the last 1000 years and experience what it meant to be imprisoned at the castle. Tours last approximately 60 minutes and can be subject to the use of the Crown Court within the castle. 

The Shire Hall tour must be booked with Lancaster Castle. Phone 01524 64998 or email lancastercastle@lancashire.gov.uk

Led by Heritage Learning Lancashire.

With exclusive access to the former Lancaster Prison’s ‘A’ Wing, this exciting and fully immersive session will investigate 2,000 years of crime prevention. Then investigate real-life cases from the Victorian era.

Only available on Tuesday afternoon and only runs in conjunction with the Shire Hall tour. Session for KS2. 

Crime Through Time must be booked with Heritage Learning Lancashire. Enquire about a museum visit or outreach session.

The Shire Hall tour must be booked with Lancaster Castle.

Phone 01524 64998 or email lancastercastle@lancashire.gov.uk

Cost

  • Half day (10am – 12noon) £3 Lancashire County Council (LCC) pupil; £4 Academy / Non-LCC pupil
  • Plus additional cost for Lancaster Castle tour (booked and invoiced via the castle)
  • Accompanying adults free

Facilities

  • Coach drop off 
  • Limited accessibility 
  • Toilets 
  • Gift shop 

Address

The Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle, Castle Parade, Lancaster, LA1 1YJ

For further information and for the site’s accessibility statement visit the Lancaster Castle web page.