Furness Abbey, Barrow-in-Furness (Cumbria)

The ruins of 12th century Furness Abbey offer a fascinating day out.

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop Free car parking (on site)

Food and Drinks Picnic area

Introduction

Once celebrated by Wordsworth the romantic ruins of Furness Abbey offer a wonderful day out. Explore the facinating history guided by our an audio tour, view elaborate stone carvings on display in the visitor centre and enjoy a family picnic in the grounds with plenty of space for kids to play.

History to the present day

The impressive remains of an abbey founded 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. Originally of the Savigniac order, it passed to the Cistercians in 1147, and despite damage by Scottish raiders became (after Fountains Abbey) the second most prosperous Cistercian abbey in all England. Set in the 'vale of nightshade', the romantic ruins were celebrated by Wordsworth in his Prelude of 1805.

An exhibition on the history of the abbey, with a display of elaborately carved stones, can be seen in the visitor centre.

Food and Drinks

Snacks available, and picnics welcome in grounds.

There is a pub serving food close to the entrance.

Other facilities

Dogs allowed on leads in restricted areas only.

Access to abbey ruins: Short grass, with some slopes. Wheelchair users may require some assistance.

Grounds: Accessible on fairly smooth grass. Two benches available.

Museum: Level access for wheelchairs; ramp to monument.

Toilets: Adapted for wheelchair users - ask for key.

Shop: Level access.

Parking: 5m from entrance.

Visually Impaired Visitors: Special audio tour included in admission price. NB There are many low walls, steps and a stream.

Hearing Impaired Visitors: Audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price. Script available.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Furness Abbey, Cumbria, , United Kingdom

Address: Cumbria - LA13 0PJ

Road Access: Located 1 1⁄2 miles North of Barrow-in-Furness, off A590

Train Access: Barrow-in-Furness 2 miles

Bus Access: Stagecoach in Cumbria 6/A Barrow-in-Furness - Ulverston, to within3⁄4 mile

Opening Times:

1 Apr-30 Jun 10am-5pm Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Jul-31 Aug 10am-5pm Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1-30 Sep 10am-5pm Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Oct-31 Mar 10am-4pm Sat, & Sun.
24-26 Dec and 1 Jan Closed 

Price:

Adult:£3.50

Children:£1.80

Concession:£3.00

Photographs courtesy of English Heritage Photo Library.
 

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