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Furness Abbey

Furness Abbey
Exterior (c) English Heritage
Furness Abbey - Exterior (c) The Chapter House - The Chapter House (c)

English Heritage is undertaking emergency conservation works to stop the ruined Abbey church sinking into the soft ground. This follows earlier routine inspections which revealed serious cracks in the walls. Medieval masons used large pieces of oak in the foundations and after 500 years, this timber is now gradually giving way.

 

During these works, the museum will be open at weekends free of charge although the abbey site will be closed.

 

At the same time we are carrying out an in-depth archaeological investigation so we can develop a permanent solution to the problem. The first phase of work is due to be completed by Febuary 2010.  Please check with site staff for more details.

 

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. (See also Bow Bridge, p. 224)

Opening Times:

April 2009 to March 2010Opening TimesOpening Days
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

How much does it cost?

Adult:
£3.50
Children:
£1.80
Concession:
£3.00
English Heritage Members:

How do I get there?

Address:
Cumbria - LA13 0PJ
Road Access:
Located 1 1⁄2 miles N 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
Map Location:
Telephone:
01229 823420

What facilities are available?

Facilities Available:
Parking Suitable for people with disabilities Exhibition Museum Education Dogs allowed on leads Shop Picnic area Events Hazardous Admission free for Overseas Vistor Pass holders Male Toilets Female Toilets
Facilities Details:
Refreshments: Snacks available, and picnics welcome in grounds. There is a pub close to the entrance. Dogs allowed on leads in restricted areas only.
Access:
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.

What facilities are available for groups?

Group Discount:
15% discount for groups of 11 or more plus a free place for every additional 20 paying passengers. Free entry for coach driver and tour leader.
Coach Parking Facilities:
Please contact the Visitor Operations Site Supervisor on ++44 (0)1229 823420.
Group Booking:
Free parking for up to 4 coaches.
Average Length of Visit:
1 hour.
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