Whats On

Castle Booking office open daily

• Advanced booking for all events is recommended
• Telephone (01524) 64998
• Credit card bookings accepted

the Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle is open daily (except Christmas/ New Year) for guided tours 10.30am to 4.00pm inclusive (Court sitting permitting)

Shakespeare at Lancaster Castle

Much Ado About Nothing

At last, demi-paradise present one of the greatest of all romantic comedies, complete with happy ending. Our dynamic full cast production, set in the 1890s, is performed promanade style in the splendid setting of the Shire Hall, Crown Court, Hadrians Tower and Old Cells.

Tickets on sale from Monday 30th January 2012

Date(s) of event
Tuesday 28th February - Saturday 24th March 2012
(No performances on 1st,4th,11th,12th & 18th March). All evening performances: 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm)
Matinee: 1.30pm (doors open at 1pm)

Price: Mon - Thurs £22; Fri & Sat £24; Family friendly first night £14 (for this performance only all bookings must include a person under 18 years of age; maximum of six tickets per transaction); Student Matinee (Sat 3rd March, 1.30pm) £12

Lancaster Castle - After Dark Entertainment presents: A Witch-Themed Murder Mystery

Join us for an evening of murder mystery and suspense in the year which will mark the 400th anniversary of the Pendle witch trials. The award winning After Dark Entertainment present a cryptic conundrum in the historic setting of the Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle. Watch scenes of evidence, explore the castle for clues, and interrogate the suspects, as you work your way to being declared Super Sleuth of the evening.

Doors will open at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start.

Date(s) of event
Saturday 12th May 2012

Price: Tickets (on sale from 1st February 2012): £18.00 (including Hot Pot Supper)

Lancaster Castle: Medieval Living History Camp

Throughout the Bank Holiday weekend The Freemen of Gwent will be setting up a Living History camp at Lancaster Castle and offering displays which include medieval crafts, cooking, and armour.

Date(s) of event
Saturday 2nd - Monday 4th June 2012

Price: Free. (Tours of the Shire Hall will run from 10.30am until 4.00pm on each day, and be charged at the usual rate.)

Lancaster Castle: Hidden History Talk: The Portrait of George III and Other Artwork at the Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle

A special talk to celebrate the return of the portrait of George III, by James Northcote, to the Crown Court following essential conservation work. Castle Guide James Houghton will explore this painting and the other artwork to be seen in the historic setting of the Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle. Encompassing, oil paintings, watercolours, sketches, and other fascinating images this is a subject which has never previously been the topic of either a talk or guided tour. Accompany James, therefore, on an exciting insight into a wonderful subject.

Date(s) of event
Thursday 10th May at 7.30pm

Price: £2.50 (Adults); £1.50 (Concessions); £5.00 (Season Ticket for all 4 Hidden History Talks - details TBA)

Judges' Lodgings Museum - Lunch Time Lectures

17th October - Sunderland Point by Peter Gilchrist.

21st November - A social history of Garstang by Brenda Fox, Local Historian.

Date(s) of event
Every 3rd Monday of the Month

Price: Lunch Time Lectures free of charge.

Judges' Lodgings Museum

The Judges' Lodgings Museum is open to the public from April until October. During every school holiday we have family friendly events and workshops.
We are open all year round for private group visits, including guided tours and Victorian housekeeping & schoolroom experiences.
Come along every month to enjoy our lunch time lectures free of charge.
For further details about any of the museums activities ring 01524 32808 or look at other 'What's On' information on this web site. Information is also available on www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums

Date(s) of event
April 1st - October 31st 2011

Price: Museum admission - Adults £3.00, Concessions £2.00, Children FREE (accompanied)

Hidden History Talks Programme 2012

Date(s) of event
The castle talks programme returns in 2012 with an old favourite and a selection of new topics which we believe will appeal to history lovers everywhere.

Price: £2.50 Adults, £1.50 Concessions

Deck the Hall

A firm favourite for the past decade, Deck the Hall is something unique in the run-up to Christmas. Join us for an evening of poetry, prose and music from across the ages- a perfect start to your Yuletide celebrations. To really get you in the festive spirit we invite you to join us for a glass of mulled wine or a soft drink, and a mince pie

Date(s) of event
Thursday 13th, Friday 14th and Saturday 16th December 2012
7:30pm

Price: £12 Tickets will go on sale on Monday 5th November 2012

Kids Activity Hours at the Shire Hall

A special tour with the under 12s in mind. Join our costumed guides for an exciting trip around the castle. Activities include taking part in a mock trial (you could even be the Judge!)
And every child receives a free gift

Date(s) of event
2:00pm - Pre-booking is advised to avoid disappointment. Call us on (01524) 64998

Please check later for 2012 Activity Hour dates.

Price: £4.00 NB All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult

Get comfy!!!

Date(s) of event
As anyone who has been to one of our performances will know, try as we might there are still some seats which can de described as less than ideal.
Please feel free to bring cushions with you to our events

Dark History Tours of the Castle

A chance to join our costumed guides as they lead you by candlelight through the dark corridors of the castle. Hear tales of murder and witchcraft, of executions and injustice, all of which form part of this building's fascinating history.

Date(s) of event
7:30pm start (prompt please!) from the gift shop entrance opposite the Priory Church NOT the Gatehouse

Dates for 2012
10th October
14th November
5th December

Tickets go on sale from 2nd July 2012

Price: £6 N.B. THIS TOUR IS NOT SUITABLE FOR PEOPLE UNDER 15