Barrow-in-Furness
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Situated at the south-western tip of the Furness peninsula, and only 20 minutes from the English Lake District, Barrow-in-Furness projects into the Irish Sea with Morecambe Bay to the south and the Duddon Estuary to the north.
Historically, Barrow is the maritime gateway to the Furness Peninsula. This ancient land has provided refuge and sanctuary to centuries of saints and sinners who have sought the peace of Furness Abbey. Founded in 1123, this magnificent ruin was once the second wealthiest Cistercian abbey in England, UK. Today, thanks to English Heritage, visitors can enjoy the fascinating story of the medieval monks“ wealth, power and influence with an audio tour.
In the 14th century, the monks built Piel Castle as a defensive stronghold on remote Piel Island, close to Barrow-in-Furness. Inspirational to William Wordsworth and a safe haven for Lambert Simnel on his way to battle against Henry VII, this imposing site welcomes can be reached by ferry from neighbouring Roa Island. There you could even meet the King of Piel!
Barrow“s more recent history began in 1846 with the birth of the Furness Railway, built to transport local iron ore and slate out of the area. Barrow led the world in building ships and submarines and this enthralling story can be explored at the outstanding Dock Museum. This free attraction suspended in a Victorian Graving Dock offers interesting audio-visual displays, an exhibition gallery, and a themed adventure playground.
Not all the visitor attractions in Barrow are historical. There“s also many sports opportunities, the Portland Walk shopping development, superstores, Hollywood Park with its ten pin bowling, multiplex cinema, health club and restaurants, and Forum 28, an award-winning theatre.
National stores such as Debenhams, Littlewoods and Marks and Spencer mingle amongst local specialist shops. Barrow“s indoor market is the largest in the Lake District Peninsulas. There is also an excellent choice of cafes, restaurants and pubs and, when darkness falls, arguably the best nightlife in Cumbria.
Barrow retains a pleasant market town character surrounded by countryside and sea. Many sites of interest are to be found in and around the town, from the magnificent ruins of Furness Abbey and the charming mysteries of Piel Castle, to peaceful expanses at Roanhead with breathtaking views of Black Combe to the north. So, if you get the chance, make sure you pay Barrow-in-Furness a visit.
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