Lancaster Castle stands on Castle Hill, above the city and the River Lune, on a site fortified since Roman times. Its long history includes a medieval fortress, a court and a prison that remained in use until 2011. Guided tours take you into areas such as the old cells and Shire Hall, and tell the story of the 1612 Pendle witch trials. You can also visit the courtyard and free Lancashire Police Museum, then stop at the café in the grounds.
A fortress on Roman foundations
The castle occupies a hilltop site above Lancaster and the River Lune. Roman forts stood here before the medieval castle took shape. Its early history is not fully clear, but a castle mound was built in the late 11th century, and the fortress was developed over many centuries.
The surviving buildings bring together different periods. The Great Keep dates to the 12th century, the Well Tower to the 14th century, and the twin-towered gatehouse to the 15th century. The Well Tower is also known as the Witches’ Tower because people accused in the Pendle witch trials were held in its basement.
The Pendle witch trials and the courts
In 1612, eight women and two men were found guilty of witchcraft and sentenced to death. The trial is among the best-known events in the castle’s history. Guided tours explain this episode alongside the wider history of religious persecution, crime and punishment.
Lancaster Castle has served as a court as well as a fortress and prison. The site continued to operate as a prison until 2011, and courtrooms remain in use. This means public access to the castle interiors is by guided tour, rather than independent entry.
Inside the castle
Tours take visitors through historic court and prison areas, including Shire Hall and former cells. Shire Hall is known for its collection of heraldic shields. The tour also covers the castle’s changing role in justice, from imprisonment and punishment to rehabilitation and release.
Some rooms may be unavailable during works or other closures, so the route can vary. Photography is not permitted in the working courtrooms. Tours last around 90 minutes, based on the time reported for a visit.
The courtyard and Police Museum
The central courtyard and exterior grounds can be visited without taking a castle tour. The courtyard also has a café, and the grounds host occasional events. The Lancashire Police Museum is free to enter and adds another perspective on the site’s history, though its opening times are limited.
If you want to see the interior rooms, book a guided tour separately and check the tour arrangements before travelling. For parking, nearby car parks are a more dependable plan than relying on a space on the street.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you visit Lancaster Castle for free?
The courtyard and exterior grounds are free to enter. Access to the castle interiors is by paid guided tour.
How long is the Lancaster Castle tour?
A guided tour takes about 90 minutes.
Can you visit the Lancashire Police Museum?
Yes. The museum is free to enter, but it has limited opening times.
Do you need to book a Lancaster Castle tour in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended, as tour places can be reserved, including for school groups.
