Seven members of the Quantum Technology Club enjoyed a Cumbria weekend break from 29th to 31st August.
The plan had been to set up an amateur radio special event station (GB9WHP) celebrating William Henry Preece’s wireless experiments at the Ruskin Museum, Coniston. Sadly, bad weather forced the team to cancel the outdoor event.
Still, the group decided to travel north and make the best of the weekend. Their determination paid off — it turned into a great trip.
Exploring The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness
On Saturday, the team visited the Dock Museum in Barrow-in-Furness. The museum tells the story of the town’s rich industrial and maritime past through models, videos, and interactive displays.
Exhibits show the area’s history from:
- Early human settlement over 12,000 years ago
- The Viking period
- The Furness Railway, which carried iron and slate from nearby Coniston
- The rise of shipbuilding, still vital to Barrow’s economy today
The museum sits inside a former graving dock, once used for ship repairs. Entry is free, and it’s well worth a visit for anyone interested in Cumbrian history.
A Traditional Meal at The Black Bull, Coniston
That evening, members gathered at the Black Bull in Coniston for a traditional pub meal.
The Coniston Brewery’s real ales, brewed on site, complemented excellent food and friendly service. The Black Bull remains a club favourite for its cosy atmosphere and great beer.
Cruising on Windermere and Riding the Steam Railway
On Sunday, the group met at Bowness to board a Windermere ferry bound for Lakeside.
Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, offers stunning scenery and historic vessels. The team sailed on the MV Swan, built in 1938 for the Furness Railway. With spacious lounges and open decks, the Swan provided superb lake views.
At Lakeside, the team joined the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway for a classic steam train ride. The train, hauled by Victor, a 1951 Bagnall class locomotive from Austin, the car manufacturers, and latterly the Steel Company of Wales, pulled vintage Mark 1 coaches through the countryside.
After a relaxed lunch in the Haverthwaite tearoom, they returned north on the MV Teal, built in 1936. Both ferries form part of the National Historic Fleet.
A Memorable Cumbria Weekend Break
Despite the weather and change of plans, the Cumbria weekend break was a success. The group enjoyed history, good food, and great company. From Barrow-in-Furness to Coniston and Windermere, Cumbria delivered another unforgettable weekend — rain or shine.