Hidden gems to find in Ulverston

Ulverston town can be busy with tourists during the summer months, so escape the crowds and seek out these nearby hidden gems… 

• Birkrigg Druid’s Circle

Standing on Birkrigg Common since between 1700 and 1400 BC, Birkrigg Druid’s Circle is a fine example of a Bronze Age stone circle, consisting of 25 stones in two concentric stone rings. Only 30 concentric stone circles exist in the UK, the best example being Stonehenge, with no others in Cumbria. 

• St Mary and St Micheal’s Church

Around 10 minutes away from Ulverston, in the little hamlet of Great Urswick stands a unique, lesser-known church nestled amongst woodland. The quaint church is the oldest in the Furness area with the site dating back to the 10th century. A Viking cross was discovered here in 1909, which is believed to have been used in the 9th century. You can see the cross fragments inside the church. The interior has stunning stained glass windows that provide a view over to Urswick Tarn.

• Gleaston Castle 

Hidden in-between Ulverston and Barrow-in-Furness, Gleaston Castle ruins is an interesting site dating back to the 14th century. The ruins are literally hidden within the landscape by an overgrowth of greenery. Exploring around the castle ruins will reveal little hidden doorways and stairways that have stood for centuries.