Judges' Lodgings Museum

Explore the history of the Lancashire Witch trials. Pupils will step into the world of 1612 as they hear the tale of the encounter that took place on the road to Colne. Pupils will explore folklore, superstition and early folk medicine through objects and role play, exploring how people in the past made sense of illness and misfortune.

Finally, the whole group will come together for a mock witch trial, experiencing the roles of witnesses, jurors and the accused. Through this interactive exploration of 17th‑century justice, pupils grapple with the big question: Did the Lancashire witches receive a fair trial?

All set in the magnificent Judges' Lodgings,once the home of Thomas Covell, Gaoler and Keeper of Lancaster Castle.

Half day session*

Suitable for Upper KS2

Curriculum Links: History / Local Study / PHSE

*Could be paired with one of the sessions at Lancaster Castle to make a full day

At Play. Experience the positive power of play as you engage in an interactive look at toys and games of the rich and poor in Victorian England.

At work upstairs. Pupils will investigate and experience life as a servant in a hands-on visit to the upstairs rooms in the Judges' Lodging. Role play and object handling combine to bring this session to life.

At work downstairs. Pupils will investigate and experience life as a servant in a hands-on visit to the kitchen and below stairs. Role play and object handling combine to bring this session to life.

At school. Meet our Victorian Schoolteacher and find out just how different school was over 100 years ago. Our very interactive school session looks at discipline, the school day, acceptable behaviour and learning by rote.

Full day session for Reception KS1 and KS2.

Step into the shoes of a Museum Curator in this lively and engaging session. Pupils will explore how toys are cared for and preserved, gaining insight into the responsibilities of a curator.

Using our chronologically arranged Toy Gallery, they’ll investigate how toys have evolved over time by identifying key changes and placing them on a historical timeline. The session also invites pupils to uncover toys and games from living memory, discovering the cherished playthings their parents and grandparents once loved.

At play. Experience the positive power of play as you engage in an interactive look at toys and games of the rich and poor in Victorian England.

Half-day session for Reception KS1 and KS2.