Lancaster Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to Lancaster, UK which includes a list of places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay and what to buy. Also, learn about the local culture and customs along with transportation options and logistics.


If you’re looking to explore the beauty of North West England, then Lancaster should definitely be on your list. Known for its rich culture, history, and scenic routes, Lancaster is the perfect place to spend a week-long vacation. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your trip to Lancaster.

Introduction to Lancaster

Lancaster is a city located in Lancashire, North West England. It is one of the oldest towns in the country and has a rich history. Lancaster is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. It is home to several attractions and scenic routes that make it a popular tourist destination.

List of Places to Visit in Lancaster

Lancaster has several places to explore that will take you back in time. Here are some of the top places to visit in Lancaster:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lancaster Castle
  • Museum of London
  • Lancaster City Museum
  • Judges’ Lodgings
  • Maritime Museum

Natural Attractions of Lancaster: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Williamson Park
  • Lancaster Canal
  • Forest of Bowland
  • Lune Millennium Bridge
  • Lancaster Priory

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lancaster

If you enjoy hiking and biking, you’ll love exploring the scenic routes of Lancaster. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to take in Lancaster:

  • Lune Valley Ramble
  • Jubilee Tower Walk
  • Stepping Stones Walk
  • Glasson Dock and Condor Green Walk
  • Bull Beck and Caton Moor Walk

Best Things to Do in Lancaster: Activities and Tours

Lancaster has several activities and tours that will keep you entertained throughout your trip. Here are some of the best things to do in Lancaster:

  • Go on a Ghost Tour
  • Visit the Lancaster Brewery
  • Attend a show at the Dukes Theatre
  • Take a River Lune cruise
  • Visit the Lancaster Jazz Festival

Week-Long Itinerary for Lancaster

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Lancaster, here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Lancaster Castle and visit the Maritime Museum
Day 2 Hike up to Jubilee Tower and head to the Lancaster Brewery
Day 3 Take a River Lune cruise and visit the judges’ lodgings
Day 4 Explore the Glasson Dock and Condor Green Walk and attend a show at Dukes Theatre
Day 5 Visit the Lancaster City Museum and attend the Lancaster Jazz Festival
Day 6 Visit the Museum of London and go on a Ghost Tour
Day 7 Explore the Williamson Park and Forest of Bowland

Food and Drink Scene of Lancaster

Lancaster has a diverse food and drink scene, with several local dishes and beverages that you must try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lancashire Hotpot
  • Butter Pie
  • Eccles Cake
  • Chorley Cake
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding

Local Beverages

  • Lancaster Bomber Ale
  • Thwaites Wainwright Ale
  • Morecambe Bay Cocktails
  • Tea from Whale Tail Cafe
  • Coffee from King Street Coffee Company

Where to Stay in Lancaster: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lancaster has several options when it comes to accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top places to stay in Lancaster:

  • Royal Kings Arms Hotel
  • The Borough Lancaster
  • The Sun Hotel and Bar
  • Lancaster Hostel
  • The Mill Inn

What to Buy in Lancaster: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take home some souvenirs and local products from Lancaster, here are some options to consider:

  • Lancaster Story Map
  • Cheese from Singletons Dairy
  • Beer from Lancaster Brewery
  • Handcrafted jewelry from Silver Tree Studio
  • Local produce from Lancaster Farmers Market

Local Culture and Customs of Lancaster

Lancaster has a rich culture, with several customs worth knowing. Here are some things to keep in mind while exploring Lancaster:

  • Respect the history and culture of the city
  • Take time to explore the natural surroundings
  • Be mindful of the local customs and traditions

Best Time to Visit Lancaster

The best time to visit Lancaster is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you prefer cooler weather, you can visit Lancaster in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Lancaster

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Take a river Lune cruise
  • Explore the natural surroundings

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the history and culture of the city
  • Litter or harm the natural surroundings
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Lancaster

Lancaster is generally a safe city to visit. However, as with all destinations, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone late at night.

Health in Lancaster

Lancaster has several medical facilities in case of emergency. It is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before visiting any destination to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Lancaster: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Lancaster is easy, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Lancaster

  • Liverpool John Lennon Airport (65 miles)
  • Manchester Airport (75 miles)
  • Leeds Bradford Airport (57.6 miles)

Bus Stations Near Lancaster

  • Lancaster Bus Station
  • Preston Bus Station
  • Kendal Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train to Lancaster Railway Station
  • Rent a car from Lancaster

How to Get Around in Lancaster

Getting around Lancaster is easy, with several transportation options available, such as:

  • Taxi
  • Bus
  • Bike Hire
  • Walking tours

Where to Go Next from Lancaster: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Lancaster is a destination in itself, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore, such as:

  • Manchester
  • Liverpool
  • The Lake District
  • Trough of Bowland

Conclusion

Lancaster is a charming city that has something to offer for everyone. With its rich culture, history, and scenic surroundings, Lancaster is the perfect destination for a week-long vacation. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural outdoors, sampling local food and drink, or learning about the city’s history and culture, Lancaster has it all.