FURNESS Abbey on the outskirts of Barrow goes back to the early 12th Century, founded by Stephen, later king of England.

Down the years, the abbey buildings slowly decayed and slipped into the soft ground as its medieval wooden foundations gave way. But the importance and wealth of the abbey was still reflected in the quality of the still-standing red sandstone remains. Its romantic ruin inspired works by both William Wordsworth and JMW Turner.

The property remained in private hands until 1923 when Lord Richard Cavendish placed the abbey in the hands of the Office of Works and it is now cared for by English Heritage.

During excavations by archaeologists to investigate the rotting wooden foundations they discovered an undisturbed grave of the abbot together with a silver-gilt crozier (a staff of office) and a jewelled ring in remarkable condition.

The crozier is of unusual design with a central gilded silver plaque which shows the archangel Michael slaying a dragon with his sword. The ring – quite large – is likely to have been given to the abbot on his consecration.

The impressive remains of the abbey, which include much of the east end and west tower of the church, the ornately decorated chapter house and the cloister buildings, are open to visitors. The visitor centre houses the Bishop's crozier and ring, along with a collection of rare and remarkable stone effigies, giving a remarkable insight into the history and development of Furness through the stories the abbey continues to reveal.