Out & About in Lancaster

Sitting pretty on the fringes of North-West Lancashire, Lancaster is often bypassed by families and avid walkers heading up the M6 for their holidays and short breaks in the Lakes. But despite its low profile, this modest little town of 46,000 inhabitants packs in its fair share of hidden gems and is well worth the detour. The history of this traditional market town is closely bound with the legendary Pendle Witches, ten Lancastrians found guilty of witchcraft and sentenced to death at Lancaster Castle in 1612. With gruesome stories of dungeons and executions at the Castle and tales of the slave trade at the Maritime Museum, there are enough eye-openers here to entertain everyone. And after a busy day's sightseeing, you can always take stock at one of the town's traditional pubs or take a stroll through the amazing Williamson Park Butterfly house and relax in the Pavillion cafe.

Shopping

With the origins of its central market dating way back to 1193, it's clear that Lancaster did not earn the title of market town unduly. The markets continue to thrive today, adding to the hustle and bustle of the popular high street outlets of Market Street, Penny Street and Cheapside, with St Nicholas Arcades and the Marketgate Shopping Centre offering yet more famous names. Lancaster also has its fair share of small independent stores, so why not treat yourself to a handful of retro sweets and Kendal mint cake at Humbugs and have a mooch around Room 12 or Reef for a classy new outfit. If you're shopping for local produce, an indulgent experience awaits at The Wallings Farm Pudding House, and you'll find the finest of aromatic fresh coffee beans on display at J Atkinson & Co. If your budget will stretch to it, there's plenty for the Fine art and antiques collectors here, from the Market in the Assembly Rooms to Bellwood and Wright and GB Antiques Centre, with fine jewellery at Banks Lyon.

Food and Drink

Lancaster is a town where you'll find exotic cuisine from far-off shores sitting quite comfortably beside the best of British. If you're looking for a hearty lunch within walking distance of the town centre, look no further than the award-winning Water Witch, which enjoys an idyllic setting right on the canal. For another cosy pub that's bursting with character, head to Ye Olde John O'Gaunt, which prides itself on alluring a desirable class of clientele with its soothing jazz rhythms. If you want to venture into more exotic realms, choose from authentic Italian at Etna, Chinese and Cantonese at the Fortune Star and Japanese at the Miyabi. And when that burning desire for a curry sets in, The Sultan and The Moghuls will have you in chilli and spice heaven, with a few naan breads thrown in.

Arts and Entertainment

Music, art and culture are kept very much alive in Lancaster by its dynamic student population at the University and its reputable Institute for the Contemporary Arts. As such, the University's Nuffield Theatre has enjoyed longstanding recognition for delivering entertaining performances from emerging artists as well as popular touring theatre and dance groups. Lancaster International Concert Series, who stage events at the University's Great Hall, are currently celebrating their 40th year of successful classical concerts and operas. It's still worth heading into town for the chance to experience theatre and comedy at the Grand Theatre, one of the oldest of its kind in England. But if there's something you really mustn't miss, it's the stunning outdoor performances given by regional theatre group The Dukes within the beautiful setting of Williamson Park throughout the Summer months.

Hotels and Travel

Whether you're here for a business trip or a weekend break, there's enough accommodation in Lancaster to cater for all requirements and budgets, ranging from large hotels to small and welcoming Bed and Breakfasts. If you're looking for somewhere to relax in luxurious surroundings, The Lancaster House Hotel is a fantastic choice and offers state of the art facilities including an excellent indoor pool and leisure club. If you prefer a small and friendly bed and breakfast, The Ashton has received rave reviews for offering the ultimate in style and contemporary living, whilst the Balmoral Guest House offers a real home from home feel, where a warm welcome is guaranteed. For a central location in the heart of the town, look no further than The Sun Inn. This traditional coaching Inn has been beautifully restored to offer a taste of local history with a modern classic twist and is one of Lancaster's best kept secrets. Its rooms are sumptuously furnished with cutting edge fittings and facilities, and the gourmet a la carte breakfast is sure to set you up for the day.