Discover Broughton-In-Furness

Broughton-In-Furness combines a vivid local history with trails, cycling opportunities and landscape experiences. Those planning a trip with varied daily rhythms will find both historical themes and opportunities to explore the old railway line, the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells of the Lake District. When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday home, you can therefore consider whether culture, activity or landscapes should be the main focus of your trip.

Local history between the Market Hall, church and obelisk

The Market Hall was built around 1760 as part of a planned village square. This design is unusual for a village in Cumbria and makes the building a notable detail of the area's history. The obelisk was erected in 1810 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of George III. Together with the Market Hall, it tells of a time when public squares and ceremonies visibly shaped the life of a place.

The Church of St Mary Magdalene also offers a distinctive historical point of interest. It has a medieval south aisle and a southern entrance dating from the 12th century. Those interested in the history of ecclesiastical architecture can include this aspect in a quieter sightseeing day without making the trip focus on just one subject.

A living tradition at the August Fair

The proclamation at the August Fair has a tradition dating back to the reign of Elizabeth I. In Broughton-In-Furness, it is an annual ceremony to renew the town's market charter. The proclamation is read from the steps of the obelisk. This gives the historic landmark a ceremonial significance that remains recognisable to this day. If you want to discover local traditions and the history of a place not only through its buildings, this connection is one of Broughton-In-Furness's notable features.

Old railway line, cycle route and Wilson Park

Broughton Railway is a 4.5 km cycle route. Benches are available along the old railway line. The old railway line follows an accessible path suitable for people with different abilities. This provides another opportunity to combine activity with breaks.

Wilson Park is located near the main square of Broughton-In-Furness and has a children's playground. Those travelling with children can make the park a separate item on their itinerary. There is also a mountain bike trail there. This makes it possible to accommodate different interests within the town: a stay in the park, a bike ride or an excursion along the old railway line each offers a different focus.

Industrial history and landscapes in the surrounding area

In the area around Broughton-In-Furness, the Duddon Iron Furnace was established in 1736 by the Cunsey Company. The site remained in operation until 1866; charcoal produced locally was used as fuel. The partially restored remains of the Duddon Iron Furnace have been preserved and are cared for by the Lake District National Park. The surviving remains add a chapter on regional iron processing to the architectural and festive history of Broughton-In-Furness.

For planning walks, the Broughton Information Centre offers maps and walking publications. Broughton-In-Furness also provides opportunities to explore the rugged beauty of the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells of the Lake District. When choosing accommodation for your stay, you can therefore weigh up different ideas for your trip: you can discover historical details, plan a set cycling route or focus your days more strongly on the landscape. What matters is which of these experiences you want to give the most space to on your trip.

More places for planning your trip

If you would like to compare Broughton-In-Furness with other destinations: Askham, Soulby, Rusland, Bewcastle, Great Asby, Grasmere, Uldale and Portinscale.

For the higher-level travel overview: Cumbria.