The Judge's Lodging

Wander through the stunningly restored judge's apartments, study the books, sit in the judge's chair, even pump water in the kitchen, for this is an historic house with a difference - you can touch!

Below stairs there is the full range of servants rooms to explore, with kitchens, sleeping quarters and workrooms; a whole gas lit world to discover. Damp cells remind you of the building's true purpose, along with the vast courtroom where your imagination is captured by the echoing trial of William Morgan, local duck thief.

Find out about the rural Radnorshire Constabulary, the tragic tale of Mary Morgan, reputedly the last woman to be hanged in Wales, the terrible state of and great escapes from Presteigne gaol, contrasting with the luxurious lives of the judges - what better place to discover for yourselves the true theatre of the law.

VICTORIAN FUN FOR KIDS!
At last, an historic house where you don't have to worry about bringing the kids! The Judge's Lodging welcome families and the 'hands-on' policy means that your children can feel for themselves what life was like in a Victorian house.

As well as being able to touch, they also have:

Activity boxes for kids (and kids at heart) to explore, with dressing up clothes, toys and activities.
Their own guidebook, Interesting Stuff, Gross Facts and a Bit About the Building, to help them investigate the rooms.
The audiotour, which features 'Victorian' characters from the building's past talking about their lives - our machines are very robust, easy to use and we are happy for everyone, however small, to use them.

JUDGE'S LODGING GIFT SHOP
The gift shop sells a wide selection of books, gifts and toys to suit all ages and pockets, mostly on the themes of Victorians, local interest, Wales and nature. You'll also find a range of cards from former Artists in Residence, who have created stunning images of the period rooms and a great range of colourful marbles and all sorts of traditional toys too – always keen to encourage the old-fashioned ways here!

New local history galleries with changing exhibitions - see website for full details of what's on.