Museums
Unearth our Roman roots, learn about our Viking invaders and revisit our Georgian past.
Uncover Lancaster's fascinating local history at the City Museum overlooking the bustling Market Square. Wander along the atmospheric St George's Quay, taking in the River Lune and the impressive Georgian warehouses, to visit the Maritime Museum in the old Customs House. Catch an intimate glimpse of early Victorian life at the Cottage Museum, tucked away in the shadow of Lancaster's impressive castle.
With a rolling programme of exhibitions and events, there is always something new to encounter at Lancaster's family-friendly museums. Choose from the links below to plan your visit or explore online.
From 1st April 2025, revised admission charges are being introduced at our museums in order to support their future. This will be the first time our fees have changed in over a quarter of a century.
- Because we are funded by local Council Tax, people living in the Lancaster District (LA1 to LA6 postcode areas) will continue to enjoy FREE entry to both the City Museum and the Maritime Museum.
- Children (under 18) and carers accompanying a disabled visitor will also receive FREE entry to all our museums.
- Adult visitors from outside the Lancaster District will pay revised admission fees at all museums.
All funds raised will go to support our work here at the museums. We’re hoping to start by refreshing the staircase at the City Museum.
You’ll find details of the new fees on each of the museum pages below.
The Cottage Museum has now opened for the 2025 summer season, and you'll find that we've been busy over the winter!
Our smallest museum has been transported a century back in time, to recapture its earliest days as the 1739 home of Richard and Anne Thompson. A visit to the Cottage is now an immersive and hands-on experience, taking you back to the heart of Lancaster in its Georgian heyday. Wear your 18th century hat and sit in the old chairs, peep inside coffers, have a go on a spinning whorl and practise your cursive handwriting.
