The Judges Lodging

The Judges Lodging From the stunningly and sympathetically restored judge's apartments through to the rather dingier servants' quarters below floors, you and the kids can explore this gas-lit world of old-time justice. Away from the posh bits the damp and dank cells remind you of the building's true function, and inside the huge courtroom you can listen to the echoing trial of William Morgan, a local duck thief! Bound to get little imaginations going!

All guests are accompanied by an unusual and exciting eavesdropping audiotour", where voices from the past will tell their tales, from simple Mary the hardworking maid up to the Reverend Richard Lister Venables who was also Chairman of the Magistrates. Plus their near total Hands-On policy permits you and the kids to actually sit in the judge's special chair, study his books, or even pump some water in the kitchen - though they quite reasonably draw the line at using the old fashioned commodes! There are also Away from the Lodgings some local archaeological treasures include the Standing Stones, a Holy Well and the dominating ruins of Stapleton Castle which look out over the town.

Plus for nature lovers The Withybeds and Wentes Meadow and Silia Wood are both nearby for some family exploration and a sneaky rambler can walk right from town to country in minutes using the local paths.