Askam in Furness

Askam in Furness owes its existence to iron ore and the resulting industry it brought. In 1850 H. W. Schneider discovered the second largest iron ore deposit in the country near the village. Named Park Mine, it produced upwards of 7 million tons of ore by the time it closed in 1918. To process the ore, furnaces were established in 1864, and the smelting process began in 1867. Terraces of houses were erected for the industry workers.

The industrial buildings were demolished in 1933. In addition to street names, another sign of the former iron works is Askam pier, made of slag from the works.

Askam in Furness has both Methodist and Catholic churches. Its lifeboat station was established in 1970, and there is a fountain commemorating Queen Victoria's Jubilee. A railroad station is still open as an unstaffed halt.

Askam in Furness is worth a visit for its views across the Duddon estuary and its long beach that boasts an outstanding breeding site for the country's rare Natterjack Toad.

Location Map of Askam in Furness
Askam in Furness is 3 miles north of Dalton-in-Furness on the A595.

Photo courtesy of Graeme Dougal

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