Judges’ Lodgings, Lancaster

Judges’ Lodgings, Lancaster
Address
Judges' Lodgings Museum, Church Street, Lancaster
Postcode
LA1 1YS
Phone
01524 581241
Region or country
England (North West)

Nestled below Lancaster Castle, the Judges' Lodgings dates back nearly 400 years on a site that has been at the centre of Lancaster's history for nearly 2000 years. The current house was built around 1625 by Thomas Covell, Keeper of the Castle and famous for locking up the Pendle Witches during the infamous Lancashire Witch Trials. From 1826 the house became a lodgings for the travelling 'Red Judges' of the Assizes Courts. Dressed in their scarlet robes, the Judges decided the fate of murderers, forgers and highwaymen at Lancaster Castle. Today the house is home to beautiful Georgian furniture by Gillows of Lancaster, elegant period rooms and the popular Museum of Childhood.

What can be found at the venue?
Collection of artifacts, Historic building or site
Significant collections relating to regional crime and punishment organisation or to a particular individual
Walk in the footsteps of Thomas Covell, famous for locking up the Witches in their underground dungeon during the Lancashire Witch Trials or discover the largest collection of Gillows furniture on display in the world.
Does the venue have an online collections catalogue?
No
Details of opening for public access and / or research services
We are only open for pre-booked groups and schools during the Winter. We welcome schools throughout the year. We welcome groups during the open season (Tuesday to Sunday) and throughout the closed period (Tuesday to Friday).
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 11am - 4pm
Friday 11am - 4pm
Saturday 11am - 4pm
Sunday 11am - 4pm
Entrance fee:
Adults £3
Concessions £2 (over 65, people with a disability, unwaged and students)
Accompanied children - free
Carers accompanying visitors with a disability - free
Family and friends Xplorer Pass: £20
For group bookings or guided tours please contact us to discuss your needs
Available services or facilities
Shop, Toilets
Accessibility and disability arrangements / Covid requirements
The museum is housed in a 17th century house with no lift and unfortunately access is limited. Visitors in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility are welcome to access the ground floor of the museum through the side entrance which is up a short steep hill. There is no parking onsite but you access to the site down Castle Hill. Large print information is available on request.
Other connected heritage sites, museums or archives
Lancaster Castle; Lancashire Police Museum
Date information added or updated:
23/03/2023
Entry ID No:
159