Broughton-in-Furness offers a range of attractions for a stay: architectural history and a tradition dating back to the reign of Elizabeth I sit alongside opportunities for cycling, walking and climbing. You can choose your focus based on whether you want to explore historical details or spend more time on trails and in the countryside. Specific landmarks include the Market Hall, the obelisk and the Broughton Railway.
Market History and Architectural Styles
The Market Hall dates from around 1760 and was built as part of a planned village square. The combination of a hall and a planned square is an unusual design for a village in Cumbria. The building therefore offers two historical points of interest: its approximate date of construction and the planning of the square to which it belongs.
The Church of St Mary Magdalene can also be explored through its specific architectural features. It has a medieval south aisle and a 12th-century south entrance. While the description of the aisle refers to a broader historical period, the date of the entrance points to a specific century.
The obelisk was erected in 1810 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of George III. The August Fair provides another link to the town’s history: the tradition of the proclamation dates back to the reign of Elizabeth I. The annual ceremony renews the town’s market charter, and the proclamation is read from the steps of the obelisk. If you would like to experience the ceremony, check the August Fair dates before your trip.
Walking, Cycling and the Park
The Broughton Railway is a 4.5 km cycling route. It starts in Broughton and follows the old railway line. Benches are available along the old railway line. For a cycling trip, the route length provides a specific point of reference; for a walk, accessibility and places to rest are key considerations. The old railway line runs along an easy-access path suitable for people with different abilities.
Wilson Park is close to the main square of Broughton-in-Furness and has a children’s playground and a mountain biking trail. This gives the park different attractions from cycling or walking along the old railway line. As facilities can change, check what is currently available before your visit.
For days spent walking and climbing, the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells of the Lake District offer different landscapes. The Duddon Valley is associated with rugged beauty, while the fells are described as quieter countryside. This allows you to choose between two named areas and their distinct landscape characteristics.
Industrial History and Getting Your Bearings
Nearby, the Duddon Iron Furnace was founded by the Cunsey Company in 1736. It operated until 1866, using locally produced charcoal as fuel. Its partially restored remains are cared for by the Lake District National Park. The period from the start to the end of its operation and the locally produced fuel offer different insights into the history of this industrial site.
For planning routes, the Broughton Information Centre offers maps and walking publications. If you would like to use these materials, check in advance what is currently available. This can help you tailor your choice of stay to your specific interests: the Market Hall and the proclamation, a ride along the old railway line, or walking and climbing opportunities in the landscapes mentioned.
Discover more destinations: Kirkoswald, Underbarrow, Farlam, Bewcastle, Glenridding, Bowness-on-Solway, Kendal, Newby Bridge
For the main travel overview: Cumbria.
