Delve into Lancaster's dark past with a look at the Red Judges of the Assizes who presided over the cases at Lancaster Castle
Delve into Lancaster's dark past with a look at the Red Judges of the Assizes who presided over the cases at Lancaster Castle and stayed at Judges Lodgings. Find out about the personalities behind the cases, like 'Acid Drop' known for his harsh sentencing, and some of the shocking cases they presided over. Speaker Penny Blackburn reveals her original research into the historic visitor book at the Judges Lodgings and shares the lighter side of Judges' lives, from amateur athletics to family life.
Free lecture. Places limited - booking required.
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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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