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Barrow-in-Furness Morecambe Bay

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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

Tour de Furness Charity Cycle Ride

Annual charity cycle event comprising four routes of either 13, 25, 50, or 71 miles. The event…

Furness Abbey

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

John Bramwell [I Am Kloot]

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

Look North, an exhibition by John Duffin

The Dock Museum are proud to bring you the latest exhibition from John Duffin, "Look North" The…

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…

The Dock Museum

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

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,…

BounceFest

BounceFest is a high-energy inflatable play experience for children aged 0–12 years, filled with…

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens

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

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…

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…

Fun! with Barbara Nice

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

King Alfred Hotel

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

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

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

RLPO presents – Farewell London

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

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

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Tour de Furness Charity Cycle Ride

Address

Roose Sports and Social Club, Leece Lane, Barrow in Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0EB

Telephone
+447947232282

robertbrianb@gmail.com

Barrow in Furness

Annual charity cycle event comprising four routes of either 13, 25, 50, or 71 miles. The event begins and ends in Barrow in Furness with riders cycling through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the lake district

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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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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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Look North, an exhibition by John Duffin

Address

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

Telephone
01229 876400

jirving@barrowbc.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

The Dock Museum are proud to bring you the latest exhibition from John Duffin, "Look North" The exhibition will be full of new and unseen paintings. The exhibition is accessible to all and is free to enter.

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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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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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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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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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Festival of Colours

Address

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

Telephone
07840 730524

info@barrowfull.org.uk

Barrow in Furness

A free family friendly festival of creativity and fun!

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BounceFest

Address

Barrow Island Community & Sports Hub, Island Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 2SB

Telephone
07725834699

info@bouncefestuk.com

Barrow-in-Furness

BounceFest is a high-energy inflatable play experience for children aged 0–12 years, filled with giant bouncy castles, thrilling slides, obstacle courses, interactive games and a dedicated toddler area for little adventurers. Families book timed…

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Abbey House Hotel & Gardens

Address

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens, Abbey Rd, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0PA

Telephone
01229 838282

enquiries@abbeyhousehotel.com

Barrow-in-Furness

A Premium Hotel & Wedding Venue based in Barrow in Furness in Cumbria. Set in 14 acres of private woodland and gardens with 59 beautifully decorated rooms with a rosette acclaimed Bar & Restaurant, Oscar's. It's one of the Lake Districts hidden gems…

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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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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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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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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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236 reviews
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RLPO presents – Farewell London

Address

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

Telephone
01229820000

John.boyd@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Barrow-in-Furness

British audiences loved Haydn – and he loved them back. On visits to London, Haydn caused quite a sensation, and his last ever symphony – his 104th – was a heartfelt farewell to the city. And some say his London Symphony might just be his very best,…

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Bay Cycle Way

Address

Sandy Gap, Walney Island, Cumbria, LA14 3JP

info@morecambebay.org.uk

Walney Island

NCN 700 – From Walney Island near Barrow to Glasson Dock, Lancaster, this cycle route takes in breathtaking scenery of Morecambe Bay spectacular coastline, quiet roads, greenways, canal towpaths and promenades.

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Tramper Hire - South Walney Nature Reserve

Address

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

Telephone
01539 816300

Barrow-in-Furness

With stunning views across Morecambe bay, this shingle island reserve is full of interest and a fantastic place for bird watching. South Walney Nature Reserve is home to the only grey seal colony in Cumbria. An off-road mobility tramper can be…

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West Shore Car Park, Barrow-in-Furness

Address

West Shore Park, Walney, BARROW-IN-FURNESS, Cumbria, LA14 3YT

BARROW-IN-FURNESS

West Shore car park provides free parking, an ideal place to do lovely coastal walks and the North walney nature reserve is well worth a visit too.

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Barrow-in-Furness

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Surrounding Areas

Did you know?

THE BARROW BLITZ

HOUSEWIFE, 49

DALTON CASTLE

FURNESS ABBEY

'LEADING LIGHTS'

PIEL CASTLE

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