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Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.
You can view the impressive remains of the abbey founded in 1123 by Stephen, later King of England, including much of the east end and west tower of the church, the ornately decorated chapter house and the cloister buildings.
The Abbey is mentioned in the poem The Prelude by William Wordsworth and J M W Turner made a number of etchings of the Abbey. The site is reputedly haunted, and it is believed there is a tunnel running underneath the Abbey linking it to Piel Castle and Dalton Castle.
Key Features
Captivating architecture
Enchanting atmosphere
Wildlife haven
Social heritage stories
National heritage here
Visitor Information
Level access to the main areas
On street parking at church
Parking within 250m
Accessible toilets nearby
Dog friendly
Walkers & cyclists welcome
Space to secure your bike
* Open weekends: 10am to 4pm.
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