Get an insight into the intriguing history of the 'First Lancashire County Asylum' built in Lancaster in 1816 '
Get an insight into the intriguing history of the 'First Lancashire County Asylum' built in Lancaster in 1816 'for the better care and maintenance of lunatics'. It was originally open to house those with mental illness who would previously have languished in local prisons and workhouses. The many treatments in the Asylum reflected changes in the attitudes towards people with Mental Illness. The hospital existed for nearly 200 years and underwent constant changes during that time. Find out more about the development and demise of Lancaster's asylum from former nurse and amateur historian Gary Bradshaw.
Lectures are for adults.
£5 per ticket, includes admission to the museum and a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit. Booking required. To book, please go to the events page of the website.
We run a popular lecture programme and regularly repeat lectures if there is demand. If this event is sold out, please add your name to the waiting list and we will be in touch if the lecture is run again.
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Visitor information
Address
Church Street, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 1YS
01524 581241
Opening times
The museum is open 11am - 4pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the season. The season is Thursday 3rd April - Sunday 16 November 2025. The building is also open for our Dark History tours throughout the winter and for pre-booked school visits and pre-booked private tours.
To enquire about booking a private tour please email judgeslodgings@lancashire.gov.uk or see our What's On page for event details.
Exclusions and safety measures
Art Pass holders free entry applies to Museum only. Events may still be charged.
Refurbishments
The Judges' Lodgings now has a new Welcome Gallery to highlight the key stories of the house including the arrival of the Judges and the Lancashire Witch Trials.
Visitor information
What else is on at Judges' Lodgings
The more you see, the more we do.
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