Lancaster Castle, Medieval castle in Lancaster, England
Description
Lancaster Castle is a medieval fortress with stone walls, towers and battlements standing on a hill above the River Lune. The complex includes a courtyard, former prison cells and an active crown court that still operates today.
History
The Normans built a wooden fortress on the remains of a Roman site from the 11th century onward. Henry II ordered the structure rebuilt in stone and expanded during the 1160s, turning it into a royal stronghold.
Culture
The castle served as the site where judges sentenced ten people accused of witchcraft during the Pendle trials of 1612. Visitors now stand in the same courtroom where magistrates delivered verdicts for centuries.
Practical
Guided visits run daily and provide access to the courtyard, towers and former cells. Parts of the buildings remain in use for court sessions, so some areas are accessible only with a guide.
Did you know?
The site remained a working prison and court under one roof for more than nine centuries without interruption. Trials and sentencing still take place in the same chambers where medieval judges once presided.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Lancaster).
The Storey
150 m
20, Castle Park
84 m
22, Castle Park
99 m
16, Castle Park
72 m
10-14, Castle Park
67 m
Royal King's Arms Hotal Royal King's Arms Hotel Waterstones Booksellers
194 m
1 Castle Hill
135 m
Cottage Museum
126 m
7, Castle Hill
117 m
15 and 17, Castle Hill
106 m
9, Castle Hill
114 m
23, Castle Hill
122 m
37-43, China Street
184 m
Number 24 with attached forecourt wall
100 m
Storey Institute, back entrance
115 m
Music Room
188 m
3, Castle Hill
129 m
15 And 19, St Marys Parade
90 m
19, Castle Hill
109 m
1A Castle Hill
140 m
26 And 28, Sun Street
200 m
21, Castle Hill
118 m
25, Castle Hill
131 m
21–29, St Marys Parade
92 m
Gate piers, steps and wall opposite junction with Dallas Road
155 m
29, Castle Hill
146 m
2, Castle Hill
120 m
Numbers 18 and 18a including attached privy house
80 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes