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Barrow-in-Furness

With the sea on three sides and the Lakes on the other, the bustling Victorian town of Barrow-in-Furness makes the most of its enviable location. There’s some great walking and cycling routes that start in the town centre, whose wide streets lined with impressive sandstone buildings are evidence of the town’s 19th century prosperity as one of the country’s major shipbuilding centres.

Barrow-in-Furness enjoys a stunning coastline and takes in two estuaries. With impressive coastal views you just have to stop for a while to take in the sheer expanse of Morecambe Bay and the Duddon Estuary.

Things to do

Where to start? You are spoilt for choice with attractions, indoor and out, in Barrow-in-Furness.

Learn about the fascinating history of the town’s industrial and maritime past at the Dock Museum, which is free to visit and has a great outdoor adventure playground. Barrow also has a wealth of heritage buildings including Piel Castle, an imposing Victorian town hall, and Barrow Park.

Stay a while longer and enjoy some retail therapy. Barrow’s indoor market is one of the largest in Cumbria and featured on the Hairy Bikers Go North BBC2 series. The town centre is home to a vibrant array of quirky independent retailers who offer a friendly welcome and helpful customer service.

There's also a vibrant array of nature and wildlife to enjoy. A visit to Walney Island is a must: it's home to the North and South Walney Nature Reserves, the latter of which is home to Cumbria's only grey seal colony. It's also a great place for bird watching.

From Walney head along the north-western peninsula to Roanhead beach and sand dunes, alongside the Sandscale Haws Nature Reserve. A sun-trap on a bright day, families will love exploring the natural world and playing hide and seek among the dunes.

Culture & Heritage

Barrow can trace its heritage back thousands of years. It's Viking legacy can be seen in placenames like North Scale (from ‘skali' - Norse for summer dwelling), Biggar (from ‘bygg gar' meaning barley field) and Roa (red island). The name ‘Furness’ is derived from ‘Far Ness’ (or ‘distant headland’) – its remoteness being one of the main reasons why the monks chose to build an abbey here.

The establishment of Furness Abbey in 1127 had a major impact on the area. By the early 13th century, it was the second largest monastery in England. Piel Castle was also used by the monks as a warehouse to store grain and wool prior to shipment overseas.

For centuries Furness was part of Lancashire and being an isolated northern outpost it was left quietly undisturbed until the mid-19th century. The arrival of the Furness Railway in 1846 made it much easier to transport iron ore and slate out of the area. Within 40 years, Barrow went from being a small village on a remote headland to a large industrial town with railway, docks, iron/steelworks and a thriving shipyard.

Barrow’s growth was really down to the efforts of three men: local iron ore magnate Henry Schneider, Furness Railway Company general manager James Ramsden and Lord Cavendish, 7th Duke of Devonshire, who put up most of the money.

Ramsden had the notion of using Barrow's steel to build ships and with money invested by the railway company and the Duke of Devonshire, the Barrow Shipbuilding Company was formed in 1871. Two years later the company launched its first sailing vessel and started building ships for clients all over the world. Over 1000 vessels, from warships to oil tankers and passenger liners, have been built here since 1873.

In 1897 the shipyard and engineering works were taken over by Vickers who ran it for nearly a century. The Company developed the model estate of Vickerstown on Walney in the early 1900s to provide homes for shipyard workers, complete with shops, churches, a farm and a park. At around the same time, a bridge was opened to link Walney with Barrow (re-named Jubilee Bridge in 1935).

Today, the steel industry has disappeared but shipbuilding is still at the economic core of the town with BAE Systems continuing to build submarines for the Royal Navy in the huge Devonshire Dock Hall that dominates the southern part of the town.

Surrounding Areas

Askam-in-Furness - Askam and Ireleth are villages just outside of Barrow.

Dalton-in-Furness - In medieval times Dalton was the administrative centre of Furness, with strong links to nearby Furness Abbey.

Walney Island - The Furness Peninsula is capped by Walney Island - a curving ‘whale tail' that has protected Barrow from the sea for centuries.

Did you know?

THE BARROW BLITZ

During World War II, Barrow was targeted by the Germans because of its ability to build warships and submarines. In May 1941 the Luftwaffe launched a mighty bombardment aimed at the shipyard and steelworks, which were left relatively unscathed. Instead, thousands of homes were either destroyed or damaged.

HOUSEWIFE, 49

Victoria Wood’s compelling drama ‘Housewife, 49’ charts the daily life of a Barrow housewife and mother through her diaries, written during the Second World War. The film won two BAFTA awards for the actress, comedian and writer.

DALTON CASTLE

The castle, built by Furness Abbey in the 14th-century as a courthouse and prison, was also used as a refuge for Dalton townsfolk and livestock during Scottish raids.

FURNESS ABBEY

Founded in 1127 Furness Abbey was one of the wealthiest Cistercian abbeys in England until it was ‘dissolved' by Henry VIII in 1537. Its treasures were removed, the lead stripped from the roof and the walls partly demolished to leave the ruins standing testimony to the Abbey's former glory days.

'LEADING LIGHTS'

The tall structure on the beach at Rampside is one of 13 ‘leading lights’ that were erected between 1850 and 1870 to guide ships through the Walney Channel. After being threatened with demolition, the brick-built ‘lighthouse’ is the only one of its kind and still flashes a light to ships at sea.

PIEL CASTLE

This 14th century stronghold on Piel Island, built by Furness Abbey as a warehouse to store grain and wool, was also the centre of a lucrative trade in smuggling organised by the monks. In 1487 the castle was invaded by Lambert Simnel and his followers as part of their abortive attempt to seize the crown from Henry VII. On the island is the Ship Inn where the landlord, known as the ‘King of Piel', can bestow the title ‘Knight of Piel Island' on visitors.

Highlights

Made in Barrow

We are proud to be working with our friends from Barrow Full to bring you our next temporary…

Barbara Dickson

In this special semi-acoustic performance, Barbara Dickson and her pianist Nick Holland explore her…

Express Bar & Lounge at Holiday Inn Express Barrow - South Lakes

Express Bar & Lounge serving International cuisine, ranging from pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches…

Fun! with Barbara Nice

5-star award-winning entertainment from the tip-top Queen of Comedy. In Barbra Streisand's recent…

John Bramwell [I Am Kloot]

As the singer in I Am Kloot from 1999 to 2014, John Bramwell achieved a Mercury Prize nomination…

The Forum

You will find a diverse range of events and activities at The Forum, as we again aim to bring…

South Walney Nature Reserve

South Walney isolated position on the southern tip of Walney Island makes it a special place for…

Walney Wind Cheetahs 10k race "Run the Wind"

Walney Wind Cheetahs in conjunction with ORSTED are hosting a 10km road race on the 5th of July…

BarrowFull

BarrowFull is an arts organisation led by Barrow-based partners with the aim of increasing…

St Mary the Virgin and St Michael, Great Urswick

St Mary and St Michael's church is said to have very early origins, as 9th and 10th century richly…

Reelin' in the Dan

Reelin' in the Dan are an ensemble celebrating the music of Steely Dan, performing songs from the…

Furness Abbey

Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after…

Wildlife Tracking After Hours at South Walney Nature Reserve with Cumbria Wildlife Trust

Have this special coastal nature reserve all to yourselves for an after-hours adventure! Track…

Holiday Inn Express Barrow - South Lakes

Bright, modern hotel in the heart of Barrow in Furness with free WI-FI and breakfast included..

St Cuthbert, Aldingham

Aldingham church hugs the Cumbrian side of Morecambe Bay and is open to the wild beauty of the Bay,…

RLPO presents – Farewell London

British audiences loved Haydn – and he loved them back. On visits to London, Haydn caused quite a…

King Alfred Hotel

The King Alfred Hotel on Walney is a thriving community pub with 10 en-suite bedrooms. With rooms…

The Dock Museum

Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the…

Hejira – Celebrating Joni Mitchell

'Hejira' is an outstanding 7-piece band set up to celebrate and honour the masterpiece works of…

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens

A Premium Hotel & Wedding Venue based in Barrow in Furness in Cumbria. Set in 14 acres of private…

Watching the sun go down over Morecambe Bay is the stuff memories are made of

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Made in Barrow

Address

The Dock Museum, The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2PW

Telephone
01229 876400

jirving@barrowbc.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

We are proud to be working with our friends from Barrow Full to bring you our next temporary exhibition, "Made in Barrow" which will take you on a fascinating journey though Barrow made by local artists

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Barbara Dickson

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

In this special semi-acoustic performance, Barbara Dickson and her pianist Nick Holland explore her catalogue of songs at an intimate level. Barbara lets the words and melodies take 'centre stage' as she performs a wonderful range of material…

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Fun! with Barbara Nice

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

5-star award-winning entertainment from the tip-top Queen of Comedy. In Barbra Streisand's recent autobiography, she says: "I haven't had much fun in my life, to tell you the truth. And I want to have more fun." Join ordinary housewife…

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Bellwethers Exhibition

Address

The Dock Museum, The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2PW

Telephone
+441229876400

jirving@barrowbc.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

A multimedia exhibition at the Dock Museum from 5th December to 23rd February exploring local stories of fragility & survival - of nature, of people - in South Cumbria. Through sound, film, images and words, an unseen, unheard world emerges. A world…

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John Bramwell [I Am Kloot]

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

As the singer in I Am Kloot from 1999 to 2014, John Bramwell achieved a Mercury Prize nomination for 2010's The Sky At Night, a Top 10 chart position for 2013's Let It All In, numerous UK and European tours and a triumphant farewell at the Queen…

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The Forum

Address

The Forum, 28 Duke St, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 1HH

Telephone
01229 820000

ghetreed@barrowbc.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

You will find a diverse range of events and activities at The Forum, as we again aim to bring exciting entertainment to Barrow-in-Furness. There should be something for everyone during the current season and we are very proud to welcome…

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RLPO presents – Under-5s Concert: Magic Forest

Address

Barrow Library, Ramsden Square, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 1LL

Telephone
01229 820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

We're stepping into an enchanted woodland for this adventure, and who knows what we'll find… Join presenter Claire Henry and musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as we discover incredible music and magic with every step. And…

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Meetwood Flac

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

f you're yet to experience the thrill of a Meetwood Flac show, then prepare to be blown away! Hear your favourite Fleetwood Mac hits played with flair, energy, and authenticity from this hugely popular, youthful 5-piece. Incredible guitar solos,…

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South Walney Nature Reserve

Address

Coastguard Cottages, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 3YQ

Telephone
01229 471066

mail@cumbriawildlifetrust.org

Barrow-in-Furness

South Walney isolated position on the southern tip of Walney Island makes it a special place for wildlife and people. It is a haven for bird life, many of which nest on the shingle beaches in the spring. No dogs allowed because of risk to wildlife.

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Walney Wind Cheetahs 10k race "Run the Wind"

Address

Walney Island Biggar bank road, Barrow In Furness, Barrow in Furness, Cumbria, LA14 3YF

Telephone
07709962321

contactus@walneywindcheetahs.co.cuk

Barrow in Furness

Walney Wind Cheetahs in conjunction with ORSTED are hosting a 10km road race on the 5th of July 2026
There will also be a childrens' fun run

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BarrowFull

Address

Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 1HH

Telephone
07840 730 521

info@barrowfull.org.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

BarrowFull is an arts organisation led by Barrow-based partners with the aim of increasing participation in the arts. We work with the people of Barrow, enabling creative experiences to happen across the town including a vibrant programme of public…

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St Mary the Virgin and St Michael, Great Urswick

Address

Church Road, Great Urswick, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 0TA

Ulverston

St Mary and St Michael's church is said to have very early origins, as 9th and 10th century richly carved crosses were found on the site and are now on display in the church.
The building's history is palpable and its setting is peaceful. Clues to…

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Reelin' in the Dan

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Reelin' in the Dan are an ensemble celebrating the music of Steely Dan, performing songs from the catalogue between 1972-1980. Born from a shared passion for, and upbringing on, Walter Becker and Donald Fagan's songwriting prowess, the young band is…

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Furness Abbey

Address

Furness Abbey, Manor Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0PJ

Telephone
01229 823420

customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.

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Manford's Comedy Club

Address

Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

We bring award-winning live stand-up comedy to Barrow! Every show has a different line-up of four top comedians, all chosen by Jason Manford! Many comedians from TV plus the best of the UK and International comedy circuit.

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RLPO presents – Dementia Friendly Concert: Sunrise to Starry Skies

Address

Barrow Library, Ramsden Square, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 1LL

Telephone
01229 820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Join presenter Claire Henry and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians for a concert packed with popular classics and old favourites. This performance has been designed to be informal, engaging and enjoyable for people living with…

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Desperados: The Music & Legacy of Eagles

Address

Barrow Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Prepare to be transported back to the golden era of classic West Coast rock as Desperados faithfully captures the essence and spirit of EAGLES. Their impeccable harmonies, flawless instrumentation, and passion for their craft make their show, one…

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Sapeurs

Address

Banqueting Suite, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LD

Telephone
01229430636

nicole@theatrefactory.org

Barrow-in-Furness

A stunning piece of musical theatre which tells the real story of people who come to Barrow as refugees.
We all have ideas in our heads about who the migrants in Barrow are, how they got here and why they came.
For the past 18 months…

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Wildlife Tracking After Hours at South Walney Nature Reserve with Cumbria Wildlife Trust

Address

South Walney Nature Reserve, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 3YQ

Barrow-in-Furness

Have this special coastal nature reserve all to yourselves for an after-hours adventure! Track wildlife across the reserve using different equipment and techniques, with the help of our expert guides.

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Holiday Inn Express Barrow - South Lakes

Address

Holiday Inn Express Barrow-in-Furness, an IHG Hotel, Market St, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2LE

Telephone
01229 444600

reservations@hiexbarrowinfurness.co.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Bright, modern hotel in the heart of Barrow in Furness with free WI-FI and breakfast included..

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Did you know?

THE BARROW BLITZ

HOUSEWIFE, 49

DALTON CASTLE

FURNESS ABBEY

'LEADING LIGHTS'

PIEL CASTLE

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