Embark on a journey to Lancaster Castle for a unique blend of history and culture. It's perfect for those who love history, families, or anyone looking for a fascinating day out.
Find out what there is to do and how to get there easily and affordably with Avanti West Coast.
How to get to Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle is easy to reach by train. Trains from Avanti West Coast link it to major cities like Manchester, London, and Edinburgh. When you get to Lancaster Station, it's just a six-minute walk to the castle.
If you're driving, there's no parking at the castle. But, you can park nearby at Central Drive Retail Park, China Street, or Dallas Road.
Taking the train can be easier, especially if you want to avoid the trouble of finding a parking spot.
What to do at Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle Museum provides guided tours, architectural exploration, and various cultural events.
The daily guided tours are a highlight, offering detailed insights into the castle's past. These tours are suitable for all ages and capture the compelling history of the castle and its role across historic Britain.
Lovers of architecture are sure to find the castle captivating. With its diverse range of structures, from medieval towers to the Gothic gatehouse, it offers a striking blend of historic architecture.
The castle grounds are also open for exploration, allowing visitors to appreciate the historical setting at their own pace.
Regularly, the castle also hosts events and exhibitions. They explore different historical periods and events and provide an educational experience for both families and schools.
Additionally, Lancaster Castle occasionally serves as a venue for cultural events. These can be events like theatre performances and concerts, which add a contemporary touch to the historical setting.
When it's time for a break, near the castle, there are plenty of cafés and local places to eat in Lancaster.
About Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle's history begins in Roman times and spans several centuries. It has served various roles, from a defensive stronghold to a court and prison. The castle is particularly known for its involvement in the Lancashire Witch Trials in the 17th century.
The castle's design shows its long history, with parts from different times like the Norman keep and the 19th-century Crown Court. Now a public heritage site, you can see areas that were once closed, like the old prison wings and courtrooms.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the castle is its “Hanging Corner”. This is a section of the outer walls that was used for public executions until 1865.
Before 1800, prisoners sentenced to death were taken to the ground where the Ashton Memorial was built. But after 1800, they were executed much closer, at the Hanging Corner, which had a door leading straight to the gallows outside the castle walls.
Lancaster Castle is key to understanding England's legal history and the development of law and order over time. Its rich history, combined with its current role in the community and cultural events, makes it a unique and informative place for all kinds of visitors.
Ways to save on your train ticket to Lancaster Castle
When you plan your trip to Lancaster Castle, knowing how to save on train tickets with Avanti West Coast will help.
For those travelling in groups or with family, exploring our Group and Family Tickets is a wise choice. Avanti offers competitive rates for group travel, making it more economical, and with children under five travel without any charge, ideal for family visits to Lancaster Castle.
Joining Club Avanti can be beneficial for frequent travellers. As a member, you enjoy a 10% discount on your next trip and additional benefits like complimentary tickets and discounts on onboard refreshments.
Using Avanti’s Journey Planner is an efficient way to search for the best fares available. It's especially useful for those who prefer to compare different travel options to secure the best deal.
Lastly, purchasing your tickets in advance can lead to substantial savings. Booking your tickets between up to 12 weeks ahead can reduce train fares by as much as 70%. Early planning not only secures your travel but also ensures considerable savings.
Get the app
For an effortless journey to Lancaster Castle, download the Avanti app.
The app makes things simple with features like changing your trip, choosing your seat, and getting e-tickets on your phone.
Track My Train will keep you updated on your train in real-time. The app also allows easy payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay.
