The Lancashire Witches 2012 Anniversary
"LANCASHIRE WITCHES 400"
2012 will mark four hundred years since the imprisonment and trials of the Lancashire Witches, otherwise known as the Pendle Witches. Learn more about this darker part of Lancashire's history with a special programme of events, book launches and exhibitions running throughout the year.
In 2012, several districts within Lancashire, including Lancaster, Pendle, Burnley, South Ribble and Ribble Valley will come together to explore the mysteries surrounding the Lancashire Witch trials and to highlight the places and venues significant to the story. Find out more about the witches' story and the 1612 trials...
The map found via this link shows some of the places of significance associated with the story.
To find out more about the events and activities happening during the year, and about the places and venues associated with the story, please contact Lancaster Visitor Information Centre on 01524 582394 / lancastervic@lancaster.gov.uk .
To purchase Lancashire and Pendle Witches books and
commemorative gifts, visit our online shop.
Some of the things going on during the year to commemorate the occasion:
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After premiering Richard Shannon's play to record breaking audiences in 2009, the Dukes Theatre is reviving the production of "Sabbat", to commemorate the 400th anniversary. A powerful story following the plight of individuals and families as they become embroiled in the accusations of others, this show will start at the Dukes Theatre and will then tour Lancashire during the rest of the year.
7 - 16 June 2012 at the Dukes Theatre in Lancaster
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10 March - 20 May Witches Art Trails through the Forest of Bowland. Especially commissioned artworks to find and follow, leading to Lancaster from mysterious Pendle Hill.
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After Dark Entertainment presents:
Join them for an evening of murder mystery and suspense in the year which will mark the 400th anniversary of the Pendle witch trials. The award winning After Dark Entertainment present a cryptic conundrum in the historic setting of the Shire Hall, Lancaster Castle. Watch scenes of evidence, explore the castle for clues, and interrogate the suspects, as you work your way to being declared Super Sleuth of the evening.
Tickets: on sale from 1st February 2012 at 9am from Lancaster Castle - tel: 01524 64998 or in person - £19.00 (including Hot Pot Supper).
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Exhibitions in the Museums...
Exhibition: A Wonderfull Discoverie: Lancashire Witches 1612-2012
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28 October - 6 November Witches and Guy Fawkes Festival A week of events from Hallowe'en to the famous and finest fireworks display of the north.
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Various dates throughout the summer: Lancashire Witches Guided Walks. Who were the Lancashire Witches? Find out on this tour of ancient Lancaster.
Thursday and Sunday Evenings - The Pendle Witches Tour, Janet Nelson, "Catwalks":
In 1612, the second largest execution for witchcraft in England took place at Lancaster. An event which has spawned countless books and theories ever since. Who were the Pendle Witches and how did they come to meet their terrible fate 400 years ago? Find out on this tour through the ancient streets of Lancaster.
(Approx 1h 15)
Dates:
May 17, 27 and 31 June 14, 24 and 28 July 12, 19, 26 and 29 August 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26 and 30 September 2
All walks start at the main gateway to Lancaster Castle at 7.30pm. Get there early and buy your tickets at the start of the walk. Walks last approximately 75 minutes. Tickets: £4 for adults, £1 for children. No prebooking required.
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Throughout the year: Guided tours of Lancaster Castle. These tours focus, in part, on the actual trials of the witches.
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A multimedia exhibition spanning time and place: “Witch Hunts, then and now” 11 Feb - 11 Nov Ashton Memorial, Williamson Park, Lancaster
Lancaster, 1612 You are a poor widow with three children. You and your children are accused of murder by witchcraft. You are tried and sentenced to death by hanging.
Southern Nigeria, 2012 You are a poor child from a large family. Your mother has died and you are accused of witchcraft and of bringing misfortune to the family. You are beaten and banished from your home.
Experience - The sights and sounds of 1612 Lancashire and 2012 Nigeria Learn - About accusations and trials of witchcraft and scapegoating Understand - About the legacy of persecution and how it affects people today
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During the year we will continue to upload information about the events, activities and exhibitions commemorating the anniversary. For up to date information on the programme go to: www.visitlancashire.com/witches2012 |
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*** NEWS *** 'Witch's cottage' unearthed near Pendle Hill, Lancashire, click to read story... |
7 - 16 June 2012 at 
The Pendle Witches' Trail leaflet is due to be updated for 2012. This is a self-guided driving trail visiting some of the sites and venues associated with the witches' story.
