An ancient market town,
Ulverston was granted its first charter in the
13th century and still bears reminders of the past
in the form of historic buildings and cobbled
streets. It also boasts a 90ft replica of the
Eddystone Lighthouse, a permanent tribute to
Ulverston-born Sir John Barrow, the explorer who
founded the Royal Geographical Society.
Despite twice being burned
down by the forces of Robert the Bruce, by the
18th century the town had been transformed into a
port, largely because of the construction of a
canal enabling ships carrying ore and slate to
reach local quarries. The mile-long canal is the
shortest in England.
Ulverston’s modern claim to
fame, however, can be found at the Laurel and
Hardy Museum. In photographs and other memorabilia
it celebrates the genius of both Stan Laurel – who
was born in Ulverston – and his movie comedy
partner Oliver Hardy.
- Stone Cross at Ulverston - Photo: