Broughton-in-Furness,

A quaint, unspoilt Cumbrian town, which nestles in the foothills of some of the more dramatic Lake District fells, one of Britain’s Hidden Treasures

The history of Broughton-in-Furness dates back to the eleventh century with the oldest building thought to be the church of St Mary Magdelene, first built in Saxon times. The town's heart centres around the attractive Market Square with tall Georgian houses on three sides. The visitor can take a welcome break in summer, sitting outside one of the towns Inns or coffee shop, enjoying sun and just watching the world go by in this timeless area of the Duddon Valley.

The family owned popular grocers shop, next to the traditional butchers and an old fashioned bakery.

The original Market Hall on the fourth side dates back to 1766 and now houses both the Tourist Information Centre and the Square Gallery exhibiting paintings, ceramics, mirrors and glassware. Features of the Market Square include a commemorative obelisk erected to mark the Silver Jubilee of King George III in 1810, fish slabs and the Village Stocks. Every year on August 1st, the Lord of the Manor performs the reading of the Market Charter granted by Elizabeth I in the Market Square and Councillors throw pennies to the children.

Combined Broughton-in-Furness and Millom traditional Agricultural Show, annual event and will be held on August 25th 2007. Great day out for the family and lots to see and do. Call Broughton TIC for information. Ample parking available at site.

One of the famous short-term residents of Broughton was Branwell Bronte who was employed as a tutor, but still found time to enjoy the elegance and revelry of the town. The wild beauty of the Duddon Valley proved inspirational to both Norman Nicholson, one of Britain's finest twentieth century poets and William Wordsworth who immortalised this area by writing some 150 poems.

Broughton is the ideal base for tranquil walking and climbing holidays. Walks from the town provide spectacular views and extensive wildlife. The Duddon Valley, Furness Fells, Great Gable and Scafell are within easy reach of the town as is the Duddon Iron Furnace, and the mysterious prehistoric Swinside Stone Circle, a Stonehenge in miniature.

It is peaceful and unhurried, and offers the visitor a relaxing alternative to some of the better known and crowded neighbouring towns' Yorkshire Post

Visit the Broughton-in-Furness website here

E.mail info@lake-district-peninsulas.co.uk

Or Broughton at email@broughton-tic.fsnet.co.uk