Although its history dates thousands of years, Lancaster's heyday was the Georgian era when it was an important port. The city's main draw is the castle and other attractions include the City and Maritime Museums.

Practical information

Lancaster Tourist Information Centre

29 Castle Hill, Lancaster

Tel (01524) 32878

Website www.visitlancaster.co.uk

Open Apr-Sep Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

Coming & going

BUS & COACH

Stagecoach operate buses in Lancashire and neighbouring counties and National Express run coaches from Lancaster to Birmingham, Glasgow, London and Preston.

TRAIN

Lancaster is on the main west coast rail line and is served by several train companies including First TransPennine Express, Northern and Virgin Trains.

Local transport

Stagecoach also runs local buses in the Lancaster and Morecambe area. The Lancaster and Morecambe Dayrider ticket costs £4.10 and is good for unlimited travel on Stagecoach buses in the Lancaster and Morecambe area.

Sightseeing, museums & tourist attractions

Lancaster Castle

One of England's best-preserved castles is also one of Europe's longest running prisons. It houses an historic courthouse where the Lancashire Witches were tried in addition to many convicts that were subsequently transported to Australia.

Shire Hall, Castle Parade, Lancaster

Tel (01524) 64998

Website www.lancastercastle.com

Admission £5 (£4 students)

Open 10am-5pm daily

Lancaster City Museum

This museum in Lancaster's former town hall has exhibits detailing the city's history with artefacts from the Neolithic age to the present day.

Market Square, Lancaster

Tel (01524) 64637

Website www.lancsmuseums.gov.uk

Admission free

Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

Lancaster Maritime Museum

This museum has exhibits relating to Lancaster's maritime history including the history of the port and Lancaster Canal, the maritime trade and the fishing industry.

Customs House, St George's Quay, Lancaster