Lancaster University

Huge Edwardian folly, but only in the sense that the Taj Mahal is merely a folly, both being grandiose memorials to a deceased wife. There are European capital cities with cathedrals smaller than this baroque cenotaph, prominent for miles around. Lord Ashton (1842-1930) was a linoleum tycoon, politician and philanthropist. His second wife Jessy died in 1904 and he built this memorial from Portland stone with a gleaming copper dome, which swiftly weathered to verdigris. It's now used as an exhibition space and for weddings, open air theatre etc. There's a butterfly house in the park and a cafe. Lord Ashton re-married and lived at Ashton Hall a few miles south; that is now the city golf club.

Roman Catholic church built piecemeal from 1857 in Victorian Gothic style, and designated a cathedral in 1924. The nave, baptistry and organ are notable. The cathedral is in active use for services, funerals etc.

The Dukes is Lancashire's professional producing theatre. The Dukes' drama productions include classics and new plays performed in two auditoria, plus Summertime theatre, an unmissable outdoor experience. Dukes Cinema is one of the most successful independent screens in the country, offering a huge range of mainstream and non-mainstream programming, with Dolby Digital surround sound. Other events include a selection of touring drama, music, literature, art exhibitions. Plus there's a relaxing bar.

Lancaster has a multiplex cinema where you can catch the latest releases. Nearby bars and restaurants often have food and cinema deals.

One of the first permanent English performance venues outside of London, this theatre has been producing shows since 1780. The last major makeover took place in 1908, which left the theatre with a gorgeous Edwardian feel. With 497 seats, the venue feels more "grand" than you might expect. For more than half a century, the Grand has been owned by the Lancaster Footlights, a thriving amateur troupe. Between Footlights shows, you can see touring productions as well as a large variety of comedians and musicians.