Taken at lunchtime outside Lancaster Castle, which is also a working prison. The prison guards were spread out on the grass in front of the main gate eating lunch while I snapped the castle from different angles (I felt compelled to ask their permission in advance). It took a little while to notice the lamp post, which smacked of an old black and white Sherlock Holmes flick. Perhaps, I thought, he tracked down some of the inmates ... No wait, that can't be right!
Earlier this morning I took this shot of the castle from a distance to give you a view of the whole structure. See also this shot for the lampost and castle in regular perspective.
Lancaster Castle is located in the very centre of the city; as well as performing its function as a prison, it provides tours and even stages theatrical productions. In fact, there is so much to say about the castle that I'll leave you in the hands of the official tour guide. Are you interested in witches? Queens? Penal history? Take a look - the site even allows you to search the convict database. Fascinating stuff. (There is also a quick-read history of the castle in this link to guide to castles of Europe)
Your photos (and commentary) are superior. I especially like the way you see in black/white but your use of color is fantastic, too. Great blog. Love it. (And what an interesting city and people.)
ReplyDeleteThanks Frank! I'm also glad now that I changed my nickname from Frank to my real name on the portal. People would have been suspicious if Frank was complimenting Frank so highly!
ReplyDeleteI've NEVER photographed a prison...but hey! Good for you! I think it was smart to ask the guards first or oops! The rest of us might be wondering what happened to you all of a sudden. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI like this in black and white. You're right the photo has a Sherlock Holmes feel.
Yes, you have made it very atmospheric. I like the historic detail you have added, too.
ReplyDeleteEG TG, it's not a high-security prison and it also doubles up as a tourist attraction, so it's probably very common for people to photograph this particular prison. I'm not brave!
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie - still haven't found time to look at your email with the html code, etc. Will do so soon though - thanks again for all the detail.
Very nice photos! It looks like an eerie scene from an old gothic novel. I would love to visit that place!
ReplyDeleteLois, it's only a plane and a train away! :)
ReplyDeleteOh wow, a real castle, I am in awe! I have quite the castle fascination, it comes from my love of history. My 16 year old son just returned from a European trip & got to see some great castles over your way, I am trying to talk my husband into London next year & I want to see scenes just like this. Gorgeous photo.
ReplyDeleteKnoxvilleM - yes, if you get to the UK next year, it will certainly feed your castle habit! Skipton Castle is another one close to us and is one of my favourites in this area. http://www.skiptoncastle.co.uk/index.asp?page=1
ReplyDeleteIt's a pity that so much of Lancaster Castle is given over to the prison. Apart from the official tour around the remaining parts, it's impossible to get in and wander around. Skipton allows you to wander everywhere at your leisure.
Yes, I see the lamp! Well done, and I too shall follow your site.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding рost but І was wondering if you
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I'd be very grateful if you could elaborate a little bit further. Thanks!
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