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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

RLPO presents – Dementia Friendly Concert: An Invitation to Dance

Join presenter Claire Henry and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians for a concert…

Manford's Comedy Club: September

Bringing award-winning live stand-up comedy to Barrow! Every show has a different line-up of four…

RLPO presents – Beethoven in Barrow

Chief Conductor Domingo Hindoyan brings our Beethoven Celebrations to Barrow with a concert that's…

Norrie Tago MacIver

The Gaelic cross-over voice of his generation. Norrie is a singer of range, clarity and melody,…

St Cuthbert, Aldingham

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

Celine – My Heart Will Go On

Step into the world of Celine Dion like never before with My Heart Will Go On, a breathtaking…

Furness Country

A celebration of homegrown Country and Americana artists, with local Furness acts bringing you a…

The Dock Museum

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

CHRIS DIFFORD: An Intimate Evening of Stories and Songs with the Co-Founder of Squeeze

Armed with a new book, for an evening of classic hits, hilarious conversation and readings from the…

Reactor Felicity Hammond

Reactor, by Felicity Hammond, is a new multimedia installation exploring the possibilities of the…

Voulez Vous ABBA Tribute

It's 50 years since the release of Dancing Queen so we're celebrating this special anniversary,…

RLPO presents – Under-5s Concert: Prehistoric Party

We're heading back through the musical mists of time to meet everyone's favourite prehistoric pals……

Tom Hingley of Inspiral Carpets

Tom Hingley is an accomplished singer songwriter and guitarist , best known as the Ex lead singer…

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

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

RLPO presents – Bolt's War

An evening of music inspired by remembrance, resilience and hope, centred on the remarkable story…

King Alfred Hotel

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

Reactor

REACTOR is a new multimedia installation by Felicity Hammond, launching on Thursday 28th May at 6pm…

Rich Hall: Chin Music

"Chin Music" has two meanings. One is idle talk. The other is a brushback throw in basketball or…

Bootleg Blondie

Following their sold out performance in January 2026, Bootleg Blondie returns to Barrow Town Hall!

Family Event: Mini Magic Flute

Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival Showtimes: 11am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm Come with us on…

RLPO presents – Come and Sing 2026

Back by popular demand, Come and Sing returns to Barrow, bringing voices together for a fun,…

RLPO presents – Epic Worlds in Concert: Music of Films and Video Games

From the silver screen to legendary gaming worlds, experience unforgettable music that's shaped…

The Miss Rachel Experience – Summer Special

Step into a sunshine-filled world of fun, music and learning with The Miss Rachel Experience –…

A Foreigners Journey

Featuring the incredible vocals and stage presence of Adam J Oades, and cherry picking the very…

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

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RLPO presents – Dementia Friendly Concert: An Invitation to Dance

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Join presenter Claire Henry and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra musicians for a concert inspired by dance. This performance has been designed to be informal, engaging and enjoyable for people living with dementia, along with their friends,…

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Manford's Comedy Club: September

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Bringing award-winning live stand-up comedy to Barrow! Every show has a different line-up of four top comedians, all chosen by Jason Manford!

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RLPO presents – Beethoven in Barrow

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Chief Conductor Domingo Hindoyan brings our Beethoven Celebrations to Barrow with a concert that's bold, vibrant and buzzing with life to mark 200 years since the composer's death.

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Norrie Tago MacIver

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

The Gaelic cross-over voice of his generation. Norrie is a singer of range, clarity and melody, effortlessly blending tradition with modern rhythm.

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St Cuthbert, Aldingham

Address

Aldingham, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 9RT

Ulverston

Aldingham church hugs the Cumbrian side of Morecambe Bay and is open to the wild beauty of the Bay, an area of designated county landscape importance and scenic beauty.

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Celine – My Heart Will Go On

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Step into the world of Celine Dion like never before with My Heart Will Go On, a breathtaking concert experience that brings the legendary singer's iconic hits to life. This electrifying production has been wowing audiences across Europe for four…

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Concert: Alison Cotton

Address

Piel View House, Abbey Road, Barrow, Cumbria, LA13 9BD

Telephone
07706166787

info@fonfestival.org

Barrow

Alison Cotton returns to Full of Noises in Barrow Park playing music from a phenomenal new album The Gods Laugh on Saturday 27 June.
She last played at the venue in 2024 to a sold out crowd. This time she will be accompanied by Mark Nicholas on…

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Furness Country

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

A celebration of homegrown Country and Americana artists, with local Furness acts bringing you a special evening of live Country and Americana music.

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The Dock Museum

Address

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

Telephone
01229 876400

dockmuseum@barrowbc.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the social and industrial history of the Furness area. The museum is a great day out for all with a popular playground, attractive Channelside walks, cafe…

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Tourism For All

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CHRIS DIFFORD: An Intimate Evening of Stories and Songs with the Co-Founder of Squeeze

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Armed with a new book, for an evening of classic hits, hilarious conversation and readings from the book itself.

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Reactor Felicity Hammond

Address

Cooke's Studios, 102-104 Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 5QR

Telephone
01229 838592

jennifer@signalfilmandmedia.co.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Reactor, by Felicity Hammond, is a new multimedia installation exploring the possibilities of the autonomous submarine. This exhibition marks a new collaboration with Hammond, following her 2017 Signal commission In Defence of Industry, which won…

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Voulez Vous ABBA Tribute

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

It's 50 years since the release of Dancing Queen so we're celebrating this special anniversary, with our Having The Time Of Your Life theatre tour!

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RLPO presents – Under-5s Concert: Prehistoric Party

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

We're heading back through the musical mists of time to meet everyone's favourite prehistoric pals… Together with presenter Claire Henry and musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

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Tom Hingley of Inspiral Carpets

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Tom Hingley is an accomplished singer songwriter and guitarist , best known as the Ex lead singer with Manchester's finest Inspiral Carpets, he sang on all the bands hits and was present at the height of their success.

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RLPO presents – Bolt's War

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

An evening of music inspired by remembrance, resilience and hope, centred on the remarkable story of local composer and music director Alan Bolt.

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King Alfred Hotel

Address

King Alfred Hotel, Ocean Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 3DX

Telephone
01229 471775

kingalfred@dorbiere.co.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

The King Alfred Hotel on Walney is a thriving community pub with 10 en-suite bedrooms. With rooms overlooking Walney Channel we are greatly situated for midweek contractors to anyone looking for a weekend get away with a difference. Walney Island…

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Tourism For All

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240 reviews
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Reactor

Address

Signal Film and Media, Cooke's Studios, 102-104 Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 5QR

Telephone
+441229838592

info@signalfilmandmedia.co.uk

102-104 Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness

REACTOR is a new multimedia installation by Felicity Hammond, launching on Thursday 28th May at 6pm.
Set against the backdrop of Barrow's defence industry, as the home of the UK's only nuclear submarine manufacturer, REACTOR imagines a fictional…

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Rich Hall: Chin Music

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

"Chin Music" has two meanings. One is idle talk. The other is a brushback throw in basketball or cricket to intimidate the batter. Both describe Rich Hall's comedy. Idle but intimidating. Sharp, quick, splenetic, and sublimely improvisational.

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Bootleg Blondie

Address

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

Telephone
+441229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Following their sold out performance in January 2026, Bootleg Blondie returns to Barrow Town Hall!

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Family Event: Mini Magic Flute

Address

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

Telephone
01539 266 200

boxoffice@ldsm.org.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival
Showtimes: 11am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm
Come with us on a fun, enchanting musical adventure inspired by Mozart's opera The Magic Flute. Led by a trio of opera singers and an accordionist, Mini Magic Flute…

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Barrow-in-Furness

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Did you know?

THE BARROW BLITZ

HOUSEWIFE, 49

DALTON CASTLE

FURNESS ABBEY

'LEADING LIGHTS'

PIEL CASTLE

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