Nestled in the northwest of England, Lancaster is a city that beautifully weaves together its rich history with modern-day charm. Lancaster, a town brimming with history and character, is the perfect destination for a delightful day trip. Here is the itinerary for 1 day in Lancaster.
As we love to stay in caravan park resorts, this time we were staying in a resort in the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, and we decided to visit Lancaster in 1 day in our 5 days staying in the park. We tried to cover as much as possible in that area including York, Leeds, Barnsley and a few places near Gretna while returning home.
Where to stay during your 1 day in Lancaster:
It can be quite challenging to find accommodation during the summer school holidays. Fortunately, we were able to secure a place at Bowland Fell Park, and our stay there was delightful. The park offered plenty of open spaces for children to play, and it was built around a 17th-century hotel.
From the balcony of your house, you can only see open greenery and hills as far as the eye can see. Our resort was approximately 25 miles from Lancaster town, and the road leading from the resort was incredibly picturesque. Though the road was narrow and only a few cars passed by, the scenic beauty was breathtaking.
What to see during your 1 day in Lancaster:
We have only a few hours to spend in Lancaster after checking out from our resort. So we decided to start from the famous Lancaster castle.
Discovering Lancaster Castle:
The iconic Lancaster Castle is a must-see attraction that dominates the city’s skyline. This well-preserved medieval fortress has a rich history dating back nearly a thousand years. Take a guided tour to learn about its role as a royal fortress, from its origins as a Roman fort to its role as a court and prison. The knowledgeable guides bring to life tales of the Pendle witches and the castle’s significance throughout history. There was paid parking in front of the castle.
Lunch at Lancaster:
The castle is very close to the city centre, and there are many restaurants within walking distance. Therefore, we decided to park our car and have a quick lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Strolling through Williamson Park:
After our visit to the castle, we went to Williamson Park, a beautiful 54-acre park that provides stunning views of the city and countryside. We didn’t have enough time and energy to visit the Ashton Memorial, an Edwardian baroque folly located at the park’s highest point, or the butterfly house, but both come highly recommended. We had a relaxing stroll around the grounds and enjoyed a leisurely coffee from the park café.
Our next destination was Gretna and Hadrian’s Wall before heading back home in Glasgow, Scotland. Although Lancaster may be small, it is packed with history, culture, and charm. Whether you are exploring ancient castles, savouring local cuisine, or enjoying the natural beauty of its parks, Lancaster offers a delightful escape. This 1 day in Lancaster itinerary captures just a glimpse of what makes Lancaster a fantastic destination, leaving you with a desire to return and explore even more.