Broughton-In-Furness: Market Traditions, Architectural History and Landscape

You can get to know Broughton-In-Furness through its architecture, market traditions, and outdoor activities. There are a variety of starting points to help you plan your trip: buildings with historical connections dating from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century, an annual proclamation for the August Fair, a 4.5-kilometre cycling route, and opportunities for walking and climbing. You can weigh up whether history, cycling, or the landscape of the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells of the Lake District will be the main feature of your stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, this selection can help you decide what you’d like to focus on during your trip.

Architecture and historical traces

The Market Hall was built around 1760 as part of a planned village square; this kind of design was unusual for a village in Cumbria. The square draws attention not only to the Market Hall’s year of construction, but also to the planned layout. The obelisk also has a clearly defined historical purpose: it was erected in 1810 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of George III. At the Church of St Mary Magdalene, notable features include a medieval south aisle and a southern entrance dating from the 12th century. These examples represent different kinds of historical connections: a planned square, a jubilee monument, and medieval church architecture. Together, they span the period from the Middle Ages through the 18th century and into the early 19th century.

The August Fair and market traditions

The August Fair combines a long-standing tradition with an annual ceremony. The proclamation renews the town’s market charter; the tradition dates back to the reign of Elizabeth I. The proclamation is read from the steps of the obelisk. The 2024 edition was counted as the 431st. If the ceremony is important to your travel plans, check the dates for the year of your trip.

Cycling, walking and finding your way

Broughton Railway is a 4.5-kilometre cycling route. It starts in Broughton and follows the old railway line. Its length gives you a concrete sense of the scale of this cycling option. The old railway line also serves as a point of reference for walkers: the path is accessible and suitable for people with different abilities; benches along the route provide places to sit.

The Broughton Information Centre offers maps and walking publications. As details of what’s available may change, check the latest information before visiting. This will help you take into account both the information about the old railway line and the maps and publications currently on offer.

Park, landscape and industrial history

Wilson Park is near Broughton-In-Furness’s main square and has a children’s playground and a mountain biking track. The playground and track cater to different leisure interests. As operating details may change, check the latest information before visiting.

Broughton-In-Furness offers opportunities for walking and climbing in the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells of the Lake District. These two landscapes have distinct character: the rugged beauty of the Duddon Valley and the quieter fells.

Near Broughton-In-Furness, the partially restored remains of the Duddon Iron Furnace have been preserved; the site is under the care of the Lake District National Park. The Cunsey Company founded the furnace in 1736, and it was in operation until 1866. It used charcoal produced locally as fuel. The historical focus here is not on a single construction date, but on the period of operation and the use of locally produced fuel.

Discover more destinations: Cotehill, Kendal, Crosby Garrett, Hawkshead, Maryport, Holmrook, Nether Wasdale, Baycliff

For the wider travel overview: Cumbria.