Lancaster Castle has received one of the UK's leading tourism accolades for its guided tours which have been described as "flawless".
The castle tours have been awarded the title of ‘Best Told Story’ at the 2025 VisitEngland Accolade Awards – an honour that celebrates excellence in storytelling and visitor engagement across the UK’s top attractions.
Presented by England’s national tourism board, the VisitEngland Accolade Awards are a mark of excellence, reserved for attractions that deliver truly outstanding visitor experiences.
The recognition for the tours at Lancaster Castle follows a glowing assessment by VisitEngland in 2024.
With origins dating back to Roman times, Lancaster Castle has stood for nearly 1000 years as a symbol of power, justice and resilience.
Owned by the Duchy of Lancaster, the castle has served as a royal fortress, a centre for law and order, and one of Europe’s longest-operating prisons.
Its walls have witnessed everything from medieval warfare and royal visits to infamous trials, including those of the Lancashire Witches in 1612.
Today, its guided tours offer visitors a vivid journey through centuries of British history, exploring courtrooms, cells and stories that shaped the nation.
Lancaster Castle’s guided tours were singled out by the assessor for their exceptional quality. The assessor awarded the tour an impressive 92 per cent, with top marks in four out of five categories.
In their report, the assessor described the tour as “extremely well structured,” with all areas visited described as authentic, and the “immaculately maintained courtrooms” highlighted as a standout feature.
Particular praise was reserved for tour guide James Houghton.
The assessor wrote: “The tour guide’s exceptional knowledge, skill, good humour and enthusiasm brought all areas to life with a careful blend of facts and anecdotes. The guide was a natural storyteller and had a captive, engaged audience from start to finish.
"Barring a couple of small tweaks to the conclusion, this tour was flawless.”
James and Dr Colin Penny, Museum Manager at Lancaster Castle, attended the official awards ceremony hosted at the British Motor Museum on November 12.
“It’s a real privilege to share the stories of Lancaster Castle with our visitors every day," said James.
"To know that the experience resonated so strongly means a great deal.
"This award is a reflection of the whole team’s passion and commitment – I’m proud to be part of it.”
The accolade allows Lancaster Castle to proudly display the official VisitEngland ‘Best Told Story’ logo, reinforcing its status as one of the UK’s leading heritage attractions.
The Lancaster Castle tours are operated by Lancashire County Council’s Museum Service.aid:
“This award is a testament to the passion and professionalism of our museum team and tour guides, who bring the rich and complex history of Lancaster Castle to life for thousands of visitors each year," said County Councillor Matthew Salter, cabinet member for Education and Skills.
"We are incredibly proud of James and the entire team for delivering such a high-quality experience that has now been recognised on a national stage.”
70 homes in Carnforth evacuated after bomb scare
Bank holiday weekend food and drink festival in Heysham cancelled
New Irish pub set to open in Morecambe
Families invited to become superheroes for mini marathon in Morecambe
Children celebrate success in Beyond Radio's first Junior Poet Laureate Competition
PHOTOS: Work continues on new apartments at landmark former hotel in Morecambe
Adam Lakeland unveiled as new Morecambe FC manager
LISTEN: Mastermind champ from Lancaster to host charity quiz at city venue
Unique workshop tackling racism in schools to be held in Lancaster
Painless blood test championed by Lancaster family wins NHS Excellence Award
Police issue wildfire warning after bonfires reported on fells near Lancaster
Launch in Morecambe for book which could save you thousands in tax
Plans for up to 90 new homes near Bay Gateway could get green light
Mayor to re-enact ancient sheep tradition at Lancaster farm
Lancaster by-election candidates named
Firefighters tackle lorry fire at business premises in Heysham
Lancaster police continue drive to tackle city centre street drinking
Exhibition inspired by Eden Project Morecambe to open in Lancaster
Spectacular night-time drone show to be part of Armed Forces weekend in Morecambe
LISTEN: Sing along as venue celebrates Eric Morecambe's 100th birthday
