Lancaster Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Lancaster Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Lancaster packs a lot into a compact city. The castle dominates the skyline and offers fascinating tours of the former prison cells and courtrooms (LA1 1YJ, open 9:30-5pm daily). It's where the infamous Pendle Witches were tried and condemned in 1612.

The Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park (LA1 1UX) provides stunning views across to Morecambe Bay and the Lake District. The park also houses a small but excellent butterfly house and mini zoo that kids love.

Lancaster Canal runs through the city and offers beautiful walks or boat trips. The Lune Aqueduct is particularly impressive - this 18th-century structure carries the canal 60 feet above the River Lune.

Lancaster Priory (4.5/5 TripAdvisor) dates back over 1,000 years and contains some remarkable carved choir stalls. The Maritime Museum (LA1 1RB, 10am-4pm) tells the story of Lancaster's surprising past as a major port despite being several miles inland.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love the walks along Lancaster Canal towpath - it's flat, traffic-free and has plenty of pubs en route. The Water Witch (LA1 1SU) welcomes dogs both inside and in its canalside garden.

Williamson Park has 54 acres of woodland and parkland for walks, though dogs must stay on leads near the mini zoo area. The nearby Forest of Bowland offers miles of open countryside for more adventurous hikes.

Many Lancaster shops are dog-friendly including most of the independent stores in the traffic-free city centre. The Borough pub (LA1 1XD) not only welcomes dogs but even offers them treats at the bar.

If your cottage has a secure garden, check it carefully before letting your dog roam free. I've found some properties advertise "enclosed gardens" that actually have gaps a determined terrier could squeeze through!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Lancaster

Lancaster Castle isn't just any old castle - it was a working prison until 2011 and still houses working courts today. The guided tours (£9.50 adults) take you through the old prison cells, the magnificent Shire Hall with its display of heraldic shields and the Crown Court where trials still happen. One visitor wrote: "Our guide John was brilliant - knowledgeable and funny. The history of the place is fascinating, especially the witch trials."

The Judges' Lodgings (LA1 1YS, open Fri-Sun 11am-4pm) is Lancaster's oldest townhouse and now houses a museum with period rooms and an amazing collection of Gillows furniture made in Lancaster. The Victorian schoolroom and toys exhibition is great for kids. The museum was saved from closure by public campaign in 2016 and is now run by volunteers who are incredibly passionate about the place.

Morecambe Bay is just 15 minutes' drive away and offers spectacular sunsets. The renovated Midland Hotel is worth visiting for its Art Deco splendour and afternoon tea. Walk along the promenade to see the Eric Morecambe statue and the Stone Jetty. Time your visit with the tide going out to see the vast expanse of sand - but never walk out into the bay without a guide as quicksands and fast tides make it dangerous.

Is Lancaster worth visiting for a weekend?

Absolutely! You can see the main city sights in a day, then use your second day to explore either the Forest of Bowland or Morecambe Bay. The compact city centre means you won't waste time travelling between attractions. Plus, soaking in your hot tub each evening makes for a perfect relaxing break.

When is the best time to visit Lancaster?

Lancaster has a packed events calendar, so timing depends on your interests. May-September offers better weather for exploring. The Literature Festival in October brings top authors to the city. Christmas markets in December create a festive atmosphere. Avoid graduation weeks (mid-July) when accommodation prices rise due to university ceremonies.

Do I need a car in Lancaster?

Not necessarily. The city centre is compact and walkable. Regular buses connect to Morecambe and the railway station has direct services to Manchester, London and Glasgow. However, a car is useful for exploring the Forest of Bowland or Lake District. Many cottages offer parking, which is a bonus in this historic city with limited parking.

Where can I buy groceries for my self-catering cottage?

Lancaster has a traditional Charter Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the city centre. For supermarkets, there's Sainsbury's (LA1 5AB), Aldi (LA1 1DJ) and Booths (LA1 1GF) - the latter being a northern chain specializing in local produce. Single Step Wholefood shop (LA1 1HY) is great for organic and special diet requirements.

Is Lancaster good for shopping?

Lancaster offers a refreshing mix of independent shops rather than clone high street chains. St Nicholas Arcades has the mainstream shops, but the real gems are on streets like Penny Street and King Street. Don't miss Atticus Books for second-hand treasures or Country Harvest for local food and gifts.

What if it rains during my stay?

Lancashire weather can be unpredictable! Fortunately, many attractions are indoor including the castle, museums and The Dukes cinema. The Grand Theatre often has matinee performances. Or simply head back to your cottage, put the kettle on and enjoy watching the rain from your covered hot tub!

Helpful Links:

1. Visit Lancashire - Official Tourism Site
2. Lancaster Castle - Tour Information
3. Walking Routes in the Forest of Bowland