There is evidence of settlements living in the historic city of Lancaster, Lancashire, as early as the first century. Therefore, it is unsurprising that the city has diverse architecture spanning different centuries and including multiple architectural styles. It is also unsurprising that there is a significant number of listed buildings in Lancaster, as there is a need to protect the city’s heritage. Although there are more than a thousand listed buildings in the city, there are just four with a Grade I classification. Here is a look at the four Grade I listed buildings in Lancaster, Lancashire.
Ashton Memorial: A grade I Listed Building in Lancaster with Spectacular Views
The Ashton Memorial is a grade I-listed building in Lancaster. It is one of the country’s finest examples of Edwardian Baroque architecture. The structure sits on a hill within Williamson Park, overlooking Lancaster and the surrounding area. Lord Ashton built the memorial in 1909 in memory of his wife, Jessy, who had passed away in 1899. John Belcher designed the building, and his partner, John James Joass, completed it. The building is Portland stone over brick with Cornish granite balustrades and Hopton Wood stone steps. It is a square building with a copper dome. The architectural features also include subsidiary domes, Tuscan columns, Corinthian columns, allegorical figures, carved shields, and a water fountain. Today, the Ashton Memorial is a popular tourist attraction and also a venue for weddings and events. Image credit: Rude Health http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/
Judges Lodgings
The Judges’ Lodgings in Lancaster is a historic building built in 1625 to house judges visiting the city. Judges stayed in the building until the mid-19th century. It then became a museum. It is a three-storey sandstone building with a slate roof. Today, the Judges’ Lodgings Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the building and its former occupants. It is also a chance to explore its many rooms and exhibits. The museum is in the heart of Lancaster and is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in the city’s history and its legal system.
Image credit: Nilfanion, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lancaster Castle: The Oldest Grade I Listed Building in Lancaster
Lancaster Castle has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 900 years. Not only is it the oldest Grade I listed building in Lancaster, it is also one of the most popular attractions. Originally built in the 11th century as a defensive structure, it has served as a royal residence, a prison, and a courthouse throughout its history. Many alterations and additions have been made to the castle. Hadrian’s Tower was added around 1200, while the gatehouse dates to circa 1400. Thomas Harrison then made multiple alterations in the 18th century. These include separate jails for males and females and the addition of the Shire Hall, the Crown Court, the Governor’s House, and the Grand Jury Room. Today, visitors can explore the castle and enjoy its many exhibits. A tour offers a glimpse into the lives of its former occupants and also the important role that the castle played in the history of Lancaster and the surrounding area.
Image credit: Photo by Tom Oates, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lancaster Priory
Lancaster Priory has a rich and fascinating history that spans over many centuries. Originally built as a religious structure, the priory has predominantly served as a place of worship. Its later uses include a community centre and a hub for local events throughout its history. Construction of the oldest part of the building began circa 1430, although there are many later additions to the sandstone building. It consists of a nave, aisles, a north chapel, a south, a porch, a west office, and a west refectory. Now, visitors can explore the priory and its many exhibits. These offer a glimpse into the lives of its former occupants. It also gives an insight into the important role the priory played in the history of Lancaster and the surrounding area. Image credit: Antiquary, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
If you are visiting the city, try to visit some of the Grade I listed buildings in Lancaster. They will give you an insight into the Lancashire city’s rich history and add a cultural element to your trip.
[…] One of the best places to visit in Lancaster is Lancaster Castle, and this is a little different to many other castles you may have visited. This castle overlooks the city and the River Lune. It was built during the Norman Conquest and is a Grade I listed building. […]
[…] to Williamson Park and sitting at the highest point is Ashton Memorial, a Grade I listed building in Lancaster. Due to its elevated position, this domed structure is visible for miles around and is an iconic […]