We love Lancaster! We work here; our team live here; we spend our weekends here, so who better to give you the lowdown on the many great reasons to visit Lancaster. Things to do in Lancaster; places to visit in Lancaster, and most importantly: places to eat and drink in Lancaster.
With the approach of accessplanit’s 2019 Everest Conference, we give you all the insider-info on the best things to do in Lancaster while you’re visiting our fair city.
The 3 Best Things You Can Do In Lancaster
1. Cycling
With the trough of Bowland on the doorstep; the Crook of Lune meandering for miles around Lancaster; Morecambe bay a couple of miles away, and Glasson Dock awaiting weary cyclists with its array of pit-stops, it’s no wonder Lancaster is a well-known destination for weekend biking expeditions. Lancaster boasts over 50 miles of traffic-free cycleways, in and around the city – so get your gear on and head for the cycle paths on your next visit to Lancaster!
2. Museums
Lancaster has an ancient and fascinating history. From witch trials; gruesome executions at the castle, and an infamous asylum, to famous furniture manufacturers (Waring and Gillow); as well as a rich history in textiles and shipping. There is much to discover in Lancaster, and a visit to one of its many museums is a must for any visitor:
3. Shopping
Being the birthplace of Waring and Gillow furniture, it’s no surprise that Lancaster is a fantastic destination for antique hunters! Lancaster boasts many vintage clothing and furniture shops in the City centre, as well as being a bustling hub for day-to-day shopping. One could easily spend the day in Lancaster, browsing the stores and enjoying the delight that is the Lancaster born-and-bred ‘Atkinsons Coffee’. Market days are every Wednesday and Saturday, when Lancaster centre comes alive, with over 40 stalls selling a wide range of local produce.
Crook-of-lune cycle trail
3 Places You Must Visit When In Lancaster
1. Lancaster Canal
There are 43 miles of lock-free canal, that wind their way through Lancaster and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can catch a cruise down the canal and across the beautiful, lofty, Georgian aqueduct over the River Lune. This return trip takes in around four miles of picturesque waterways and takes just under two hours for a return trip. Another way to enjoy this peaceful industrial relic, is to walk it. With plenty of pubs along the canal-side to choose from, you won’t be short of a spot for lunch, or a cheeky pint for that matter.
2. Williamson Park and the Ashton memorial
The Ashton Memorial was completed on the commission of millionaire industrialist, Lord Ashton in 1909. This impressive ‘folly’ memorial to his second wife, Jessy sits in prominence above Lancaster, in the heart of Williamson Park. As well as being a beautiful spot for a stroll and a picnic on a Summers day, Williamson park also hosts many fun events throughout the year. A must-see attraction while you’re up there, is the ‘Butterfly House’- A spectacular collection of live butterflies; in a protective, indoor park environment.
3. Lancaster Castle
Believed to have been founded in the 11th Century, Lancaster Castle has witnessed many scenes of significant historical; cultural and political impact. Surviving almost 1000 years of changing, and often gory history. A past site of religious persecution; witch trails, and over 200 executions, for everything from murder to making ‘illegal’ oaths; Lancaster Castle is a fascinating and entertaining trip for any visitor to the city. You can visit the castle; take a tour; attend one of their many immersive events, or even just relax on the grass and enjoy the view.
Lancaster Castle - Photo © Ian Taylor (cc-by-sa/2.0)
5 Recommended Places to Eat In Lancaster
Lancaster is jam-packed full of amazing eateries, as well as great places to drink and soak up the atmosphere of the city. Here are just a few of our favourites:
- The Sun – Great gastro-pub grub
- Sun Pizza – The same great food and service- but Pizza!
- Quite Simply French – Fabulous French Cuisine
- Radish – Wholesome, vegetarian food
- The Whale Tail – Vegetarian café and organic produce shop
The Whaletail, Lancaster
Our Staff Favourites
Stuart
“I really like a stroll up to Williamsons park/Ashton Memorial. I also love to eat Mexican in the Gregson and the roast dinner in the Royal is amazing!!”
Audrey
“I love GB Antiques (near the Brewery). It’s a great place to search for old bits of furniture and stuff.”
Jamie
“A tranquil walk along the canal and through Williamson Park is my favourite thing about Lancaster. Both are only a short walk away, but they feel like another world.”
Jenna
“Two nice places just to be at:
- Hanging out on the priory field by the castle in summer
- Looking over the river Lune
And for eating: Our staff-favourite Indian Restaurant - BaBar Elephant”
Louise
“The Sun for a relaxed, welcoming environment with great food and drink choices, not your stereotypical pub. They also do a lovely breakfast. Try Spaghetti House for some authentic Italian food and drink, in a quaint little restaurant.”
Rachael
“I enjoy going to Tipple for a cocktail on a Friday after work! I also really enjoy the food at The Royal which is just around the corner, their Sunday roasts are fab.
Hannah
“Lancaster is great for veggie and vegan food! The Whale Tail Cafe, The Radish and The Herbarium to name a few…”
Dave
“Raddish and the Robert Gillow are my favourite places to eat/drink in Lancaster. If you’re a sports fan, a trip to the Giant Axe (Lancaster City F.C) ground is a must.”
What Else Is There to Do In Lancaster?
We hold our conference for training professionals here in Lancaster every year. We aim to bring all of the key components of a successful training business together to provide a one-stop shop for professionals in the training industry. Learn more about Everest Conference 2019 here.
Further Reading:
- Why Training Professionals Should Attend Everest 2019
