A northern gem waiting to be discovered, Lancaster has much to enjoy.
From the impressive Georgian architecture to the nearby north-west coast, there are plenty of delights to find with car hire in Lancaster. Delve into the past within the halls of Lancaster Castle, or get back in touch with nature by exploring the Forest of Bowland.
Discover sinister history
Lancaster Castle is a magnificent fortress that proudly overlooks the city, encapsulating the area’s fascinating yet sometimes bloody past.
Situated next to the priory, the castle dates to the 11th century, and became notorious as a place of punishment. The scene of many notable trials throughout the centuries, prisoners were both brought to justice and imprisoned here.
The castle is perhaps best known as the setting for the Lancashire Witch Trials, the most notorious in English history. Suspected witches were held in what’s now known as Witches Tower before their sentencing, which provides one of the main draws of the citadel. Book onto one of the guided tours and you’ll have chance to visit the harrowing prison, and learn more about its previous uses.
Paintings and the ancient past
Housed in a striking Georgian building that was once Lancaster’s town hall, Lancaster City museum has been open to the public since 1923.
Today it boasts impressive collections illustrating the history of Lancaster, and the surrounding region.
An absolute gem of a gallery, the various works highlight moments in Lancaster’s timeline as far back as the Roman empire, as well as landscape paintings inspired by the local areas.
Head to the sea
If you can’t decide between a city break or a seaside holiday, enjoy a bit of both when you visit Lancaster. Only around an eight-kilometre drive to Morecambe Bay, Lancaster is an ideal base if you want to spend a day on the sand.
With natural landscapes and awe-inspiring sunsets, Morecambe Bay is a great place to breathe in some fresh sea air, and go adventuring if you so choose. Whether you like sailing or horse riding, this is one of the best locations in the UK to take on these activities.
You can even discover the local wildlife at RSPB Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay, home to many types of creatures. From crawling insects to flapping bats, there’s even the potential of seeing some local red deer. There are plenty of car parks in the surrounding area, so you can safely leave your hire car while you enjoy your day.
A city that catches the imagination, there’s plenty of discoveries to be made along the roads of Lancaster and beyond. Book car hire in Lancaster in advance, and you can collect your vehicle and start enjoying your journey as soon as you arrive.