heritage of barrow...

Dock Museum
Award-winning museum (built over a Victorian dry dock) that tells the story of Barrow and its industrial achievements in a highly accessible way. There are informative displays on the shipbuilding industry and social history of Barrow, several exquisitely crafted models of ships, a choice of films, shows, interactive computers and changing exhibitions by local artists. Outside, there is a children's adventure playground, and walkways that link with the former dockside area, there is a Café and gift shop on site. read more

St Michael's Church
Though the new church was built in 1840, it stands on the site of a much earlier chapel, which in turn was sited on a Saxon burial ground. Many ancient artefacts found here including Stone Age axes and a Viking sword discovered in the graveyard in 1909. St Michael's is known as the ‘Sailors Church', as many mariners are buried in the graveyard. 

Dalton Castle
The castle, built by Furness Abbey in the 14th-century as a courthouse and prison, was also used as a refuge for Dalton townsfolk and livestock during Scottish raids. Inside there is a small collection of old armour and an exhibition on the artist George Romney (born in Dalton-in-Furness and buried in the nearby church). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Piel Castle
This 14th century stronghold on Piel Island, built by Furness Abbey as a warehouse to store grain and wool, was also the centre of a lucrative trade in smuggling (organised by the monks). In 1487 the castle was invaded by Lambert Simnel and his followers as part of their abortive attempt to seize the crown from Henry VII.  On the island is the Ship Inn (currently under renovation), where the landlord (known as the ‘King of Piel') can bestow the title ‘Knight of Piel Island' on visitors. Piel Island is accessible by ferry from Roa Island during the summer months only (subject to tides and weather conditions). For details of the ferry service, telephone Barrow Tourist Information Centre www.english-heritage.org.uk/northwest

Town Hall
Imposing Victorian Gothic building with a central clock tower, opened in 1887. Guided tours subject to availability. Leaflet available from the Town Hall or Tourist Information Centre.

Furness Abbey
Founded in 1127, Furness Abbey was one of the wealthiest Cistercian abbeys in England until it was ‘dissolved' by Henry VIII in 1537. Its treasures were removed, the lead stripped from the roof and the walls partly demolished to leave the ruins standing testimony to the Abbey's former glory days. Visitor centre with displays on monastic life and artefacts found on the site. read more