Judges' Lodgings Museum
Discover exquisite Gillow furniture and step back into the Regency era at this historic former judges' accommodation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Judges' Lodgings Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite Gillow furniture and step back into the Regency era at this historic former judges' accommodation.
"One of the best £5 museum experiences I've ever had!"
🎟️ Discount with Castle Ticket
Keep your Lancaster Castle ticket for a discount on admission!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Engage with passionate volunteers for deep historical insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gillow Furniture Collection
Throughout the museum
Marvel at exquisite furniture from the renowned Gillows company, showcasing Regency elegance and craftsmanship.
Regency Period Rooms
Main exhibition floors
Step back in time as rooms are meticulously recreated to reflect the era when judges stayed here.
Museum of Childhood
Top floor
Explore a charming collection of toys and games, offering a nostalgic glimpse into childhood past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Richer Visit
Unlock Discounts and Insights
Engage with the knowledgeable volunteer staff; their passion for local history and the exhibits, especially the Gillow furniture, can transform your visit from a simple walk-through to an immersive historical journey.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Discount with Castle Ticket
Keep your Lancaster Castle ticket for a discount on admission!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Engage with passionate volunteers for deep historical insights.
🕰️ Allow an Hour
A self-guided tour typically takes about an hour.
🧸 Museum of Childhood Fun
Don't miss the delightful Museum of Childhood on the top floor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Discount with Castle Ticket
Keep your Lancaster Castle ticket for a discount on admission!
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Engage with passionate volunteers for deep historical insights.
🕰️ Allow an Hour
A self-guided tour typically takes about an hour.
🧸 Museum of Childhood Fun
Don't miss the delightful Museum of Childhood on the top floor.
🎨 Art Exhibitions
Check for temporary art displays, like 'Ebo Boy' portraits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Judges' Lodgings Museum as a hidden gem, offering exceptional value for its modest admission fee. The highlight for many is the stunning Gillow furniture and the authentically recreated period rooms, brought to life by passionate and knowledgeable volunteers. While small, it provides a rich historical experience, with the Museum of Childhood being a delightful bonus for all ages.
"This small museum is well worth a visit. The building was used by judges when presiding over the trials in nearby Lancaster Castle, and most of the rooms are set out to show how they might looked in different periods, and also to display furniture made by the famous Gillows company based just across the road. An excellent guide in period costume gave us an insight into the building's history and what life was like for the judges who stayed there.
On the top floor is the Museum of Childhood, where you can see examples of children's toys and games from Victorian times to the 1980s.
For anyone with an interest in history this museum is well worth an hour of your time, especially as admission for adults is only £5 - and you get a discount on that if you've been on the tour of Lancaster Castle and keep your ticket"
DAVID BLYTHE
"A fabulous museum featuring beautiful Gillows furniture and offering a fascinating look at local history. The volunteer staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic who and are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the exhibits and the history behind them."
David Chadwick
"My wife and I were in Lancaster for the wonderful music festival and took the chance to catch up on some history, as I used to work as a guide at the castle.
The Judges Lodgings turned out to be a wonderful treasure trove of information and displays and is peopled by wonderful volunteers over-brimming with information about the history of Lancaster.
It was a wonderful experience - the little garden and the Museum of Childhood were great bonuses, and the whole thing made for one of the best £5 museum experiences I've ever had!
Thank you!
Jon"
Jon Turner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Judges' Lodgings Museum is conveniently located near Lancaster Castle, making it easily accessible on foot within the city center. If arriving by public transport, the nearest train station is Lancaster Station, a short walk away. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy.
While the main floors are generally accessible, some older buildings may have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information regarding ramps or elevator access.
Yes, the Judges' Lodgings Museum is a great day trip from Manchester. Trains run regularly from Manchester to Lancaster, and the museum is a short walk from the station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around £5 for adults, with children often admitted for free. Holding a ticket from a Lancaster Castle tour may also grant you a discount.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official museum website or their social media pages for the most current operating times before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission, especially during off-peak times. However, for special events or guided tours, it's recommended to book ahead to secure your spot.
Yes, a discount is often available if you present a ticket from your Lancaster Castle tour. Check with the museum for any other potential group or family discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases Gillow furniture, period rooms reflecting the judges' lodgings, and a Museum of Childhood. There are also interactive elements for children and often temporary art exhibitions.
A self-guided tour typically takes about an hour, but you might spend longer if you engage deeply with the exhibits or participate in a guided tour.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. The guides, sometimes in period costume, provide fascinating insights into the building's history and the lives of the judges.
Absolutely! The Museum of Childhood is a highlight for younger visitors, and there are often areas where children can draw or play games.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check the museum's guidelines upon arrival or on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning Gillow furniture, the authentically recreated period rooms, and the charming displays in the Museum of Childhood. The exterior architecture near Lancaster Castle also offers great shots.
Typically, flash photography is not permitted inside museums to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
The intricately detailed Regency rooms and the unique pieces of Gillow furniture are highly photogenic. Temporary art exhibitions, like the 'Ebo Boy' portraits, also provide interesting photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers
🚶 Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Gillow Furniture
Visitors can expect to see a range of Gillow pieces, from ornate dining tables and chairs to sophisticated sideboards and writing desks. These items not only showcase the aesthetic of the Regency period but also highlight the innovation and skill that made Gillows a household name among the aristocracy and wealthy elite. The museum's location, being so close to the original Gillows workshop, makes this collection particularly poignant and historically significant.
Interacting with the knowledgeable volunteers at the museum can provide deeper insights into the specific provenance of these pieces and the techniques used by Gillow craftsmen. Their passion for sharing this heritage truly brings the furniture to life, offering a tangible connection to Lancaster's industrial and artistic past.
A Glimpse into Judicial History
Walking through the museum, you can imagine the atmosphere of the time – the solemnity of the judicial duties and the domestic life of the judges. The exhibits often detail the legal proceedings that took place at the castle, providing context for the judges' presence. This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with a significant aspect of British legal history in a very personal way.
Some visitors have noted the presence of guides in period costume, which can further enhance the historical immersion.
The Charm of the Museum of Childhood
The exhibits offer a fascinating look at how childhood play and pastimes have evolved over the decades. From traditional wooden toys and board games to early electronic gadgets, the collection sparks memories for older visitors and provides an educational glimpse into the past for younger ones. It’s a space that encourages reflection on the simple joys and ingenuity of childhood across different eras.
This section is often highlighted as a bonus feature that adds significant value to the museum visit, making it enjoyable for a wider range of ages and interests.
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