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Furness Abbey

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

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.

Nearby is Bow Bridge, a narrow 15th-century stone bridge across Mill Beck, which carried an old packhorse route to Furness Abbey.

What are the opening times?

DatesOpening TimesOpening Days
21 Mar-30 Sep 10am-5pm Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Oct-31 Mar 10am-4pm Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
Closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan    

How much does it cost?

Adult:
£3.50
Children:
£1.80
Concession:
£2.80
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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