Explore Lancaster and the local area
Lancaster boasts a wealth of historic places of interest that will really enrich your stay at Penny Street Bridge. We’ve handpicked a few of our favourite places within just a few miles that you can explore during your stay with us.
The Fellsman Steam Train
Take a trip on the popular Fellsman. The train is steam hauled throughout and runs every Wednesday during the Summer months over Britain’s most scenic railway, taking you through the magnificent Yorkshire Dales and beyond. The 72 mile route will carry you over the 24 arches of breathtaking engineering that is the Ribblehead Viaduct. You will then go through the longest tunnel on the line at Blea Moor. Take in the picture perfect views from your seat as you make your way through the rolling hills and rural villages of the Dales, into the lush Eden Valley before finally arriving at the city border of Carlisle.
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Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park
Commissioned by Lord Ashton, the Memorial is a loving tribute to his late wife. His intention was to remind people about the importance of Lancaster as a thriving commercial centre in both times gone by and now in the 21st century. The outdoor viewing gallery offers excellent panoramas of the surrounding countryside, where you can look out across to Morecambe Bay. On a clear day, it’s even possible to see the Lakeland hills, Blackpool Tower & the Isle of Man.
Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle’s colourful history can be traced back to Roman times and from its commanding position on the hill overlooking the town of Lancaster and the River Lune, it stood as a bastion against the marauding forces of Picts and Scots. For centuries people were sent here from all over the county to stand trial for their crimes – with the Pendle Witch Trials being the most renowned. This well preserved castle will bring all the history to life on your visit and is an absolute must.
Glasson Docks
Drive twenty minutes south of Lancaster and you’ll reach Glasson Dock. It’s a great place to soak up the history of this most fascinating region. The harbour opened in 1787 to offer safe docking to vessels which had difficulty navigating up the River Lune to the quays in Lancaster. In its day, it was the largest port in the North West, importing cotton, sugar and spices. It is still used today by cargo ships and pleasure crafts. Explore the marina and take in the history, or stroll around the quaint village.
Morecambe
A short 10 minute car ride away you’ll discover the golden sands of Morecambe beach. Stop for a coffee or ice cream in one of the seafront cafes, visit the Eric Morecambe statue or take in the art on the promenade. Morecambe offers a real step back in time to traditional seaside fun, with something for every age. On a sunny day there’s nothing better than taking your shoes and socks off, splashing in the sea and feeling the sand between your toes.
Gresgarth Hall Gardens
Travel just five miles East and you will reach one of the largest and most exciting Gardens in the North West. Gresgarth Hall Gardens were created by the world-renowned landscape designer and plants woman Arabella Lennox-Boys and stretch across 12 acres of land. Open just once a month, you’ll have to make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to visit these beautiful grounds.
You can view the opening times and the prices here.
