Performers take a break at Heysham Operatic Society's performance of Trial by Jury, Lancaster Crown Court, Lancaster. This area of the Castle was added in 1804 in Gothic style as part of a series of improvements made at that time. The first courts are known to have taken place at the Castle in 1188. Then known as assizes, judges would come to the castle three times a year to hear cases brought to them from all over Lancashire. These continued until 1835 when a permanent court and judge were put in place. This wing is the only area of the court open to tourists and only when court is not in session. They are also occasionally used for theatre productions.