Things to do in Lancaster
Attractions, walks and activities
Lancaster is a historic city in the heart of Lancashire. It is located just 8 miles down the road from Moss Wood Caravan Park and famous for its riverside paths, lock-free canal and standout museums.
Brief History of Lancaster
The name ‘Lancaster’ comes from ‘Lon’ or the River Lune which the city sits on, and ‘Caster’ the Old English for fort.
It is only appropriate then that much of the history of the city can be found around the castle, dating back as far as a Roman garrison around the 1st Century AD.
The more modern history of the city is based around the Lune, as growing trade on the river brought prosperity as the industrial revolution began to bloom. While the port was only short lived due to the river becoming silted up, trade continued coming through other local ports such as Glasson Dock down the road.
Things to Do in Lancaster
There are plenty of Lancaster attractions to keep the avid sightseer happy.
1. Lancaster Castle
Discover a thousand years of history at Lancaster Castle. Learn more about the Lancashire Witches, prison life and courtrooms. Entry to the courtyard is free. Guided tours take place daily and are the best way to experience inside.
2. Williamson Park & Ashton Memorial
Explore more than fifty acres of hilltop parkland at Williamson Park. Enjoy woodland walks, play areas and the iconic Ashton Memorial, which boasts far-reaching views towards The Lakes.
3. Lune Aqueduct
John Rennie’s magnificent Grade 1 listed aqueduct carries the canal high over the River Lune. The aqueduct is popular with landscape photographers. It’s also a lovely place to enjoy a walk or bike ride.
4. Lancaster Maritime Museum
The Lancaster Museum is a popular wet-weather activity. Walk around the exhibitions on trade, the canal and Lancaster life. A great day out for all the family.
5. Lancaster Canal
Lancaster is lock-free for more than 40 miles. Walk or cycle along the canal.
Family-friendly Lancaster
- Williamson Park: playgrounds, cafe, butterfly house and plenty of open space to play or enjoy a picnic
- Canal & Greenways: scenic, flat and traffic-free walks
- Maritime Museum: hands-on exhibitions to keep all members of the family entertained
Day Trips Near Lancaster
- Glasson Dock – harbour, marina and estuary with wonderful wildlife
- Heysham Head – explore St Patrick’s Chapel ruins and famous rock-cut graves above Morecambe Bay
- RSPB Leighton Moss (Silverdale) – the North West’s largest reed bed, perfect for watching wading species
- Forest of Bowland – woodland walks, dark skies for stargazing and scenic drives
FAQs
Q: Is Lancaster good without a car?
A: Yes, trains stop close to the city centre – it’s easy for exploring without a car
Q: Where can I get a city view?
A: The Ashton Memorial (in Williamson Park) and Lancaster Castle both offer far-reaching views over the city
Q: What’s special about the canal here?
A: The Lancaster Canal is famous for having long stretches without locks
Visitor Information
- Getting around: Lancaster is a small city that’s easy to explore by foot. Most of the attractions can be found near the castle or market square
- Parking: the park and ride is a convenient option for visiting Lancaster. There are plenty of pay and display car parks in the city, but they do get busy
- Markets: the City Charter Market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday
How to Get There
- By car: follow signs from the M6 J33/J34 – head towards the park & ride. The drive should take around 20 minutes
- By bike/on foot: join the Lune riverside paths and Lancaster Canal
Plan your Visit
With riverside walks, historic attractions and lively markets, Lancaster offers an interesting day out.
Where to Stay
Moss Wood Caravan Park is an award-winning holiday park near Lancaster. We have a range of fully serviced touring pitches and holiday homes for sale, all located in a scenic location surrounded by countryside.
Our on-park facilities include a private fishing lake, nature trail, woodland walk, children’s play area and shop selling Lancashire produce.
Looking for more inspiration? Visit Glasson Dock, Galgate, Garstang or Pilling