Dr Colin Penny asks, Why was there a moral panic about witches and what were the horrors of the supernatural in the 1600s?
The terrible trials of witches in Lancaster in 1612 took part against a widespread fear of witchcraft. Popular speaker Dr Colin Penny is back to ask, why was there a moral panic about witches and what were the horrors of the supernatural? Now you can find out about King James I, his obsession with witchcraft, his book Demonology and the social turmoil of the 1600s which created such terror. Not to be missed, if you are brave enough!
To mark 400 years of Judges Lodgings.
The lectures are suitable for adults and are £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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