Top 10 Historic Sites in Lancashire, England

Site of 17th-century witch trials.

Owned by the serving monarch, HM Queen Elizabeth II, through the Duchy of Lancaster, Lancaster Castle is a wealth of English history. Since being established by the Romans the castle has been a home to monarchs, a place of trial and execution, and a working prison right up until 2012. Still a crown court, the majority of the castle is now open to the public for the first time in over 1,000 years. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and ongoing restoration work in the Shire Hall guided tours have been suspended until January 2021. The courtyards are open and free to visit but there is no access to any of the buildings at the moment. The cafe is open between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm daily.

The museum stands high on Castle Hill, in the shadow of the Castle Keep, an image which has dominated Clitheroe's skyline for over 800 years. The historic landmark of Clitheroe, in the heart of the Ribble Valley offers a day of exploration for all the family. Our intriguing galleries will take you on a journey through 350 million years of history, heritage and geology of the local area. We have lots of activities for children in the museum - a competition hunt, dressing-up costumes, explorer back-packs (with hat and magnifying glass), craft activities and various interactive displays. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day of exploration and learning.

One of Lancashire's most historic halls set in the beautiful park of the same name. The history of the Hall itself is full of intrigue, with stories of plotting and religious turmoil. It dates back to Elizabethan times with changes and additions over the centuries, all helping make a visit to the Hall a fascinating and enjoyable experience. This grade 1 listed building is the jewel in Chorley's crown, with stunning plaster work and architectural features. As the town's museum and art gallery it is also home to items of local historical interest. William Shakespeare and Oliver Cromwell are some of the famous guests to stay at the hall.

Built in 1325 Samlesbury Hall is steeped in fascinating history, retaining its original typical black and white exterior, the Hall is almost equidistant between Blackburn and Preston, yet retaining a rural feel. Saved from demolition in the 1920’s by six local businessmen, it remains in the Charitable Trust today with the aim of maintaining and keeping open for the visitors to enjoy.With the turbulent history of catholic families, the haunting of Lady Dorothy Southworth (and others), a captivating insight into life from the early 14th to the early 20th Century is all waiting to be discovered.Samlesbury Hall also offers the very best of Lancashire, with exhibitions from local artists, antiques and collectibles and a gift shop, which sells high quality Lancashire produce.The extensive grounds are delightful and even include a small selection of animals in an ever increasing menagerie. The gardens also feed the kitchen and the award-winning restaurant and coffee lounge.Samlesbury Hall is open to visitors all year round and promises something for all the family

Browsholme is an ancestral home & estate dating from 1507. The Hall and landscaped gardens are open to visitors throughout the summer. The Tithe Barn is our wedding venue and tea room, which, along with the Woodland Glade, provides the perfect setting for weddings throughout the year.