Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens: A Timeless Cumbrian Estate
Explore centuries of history, award-winning gardens, and the world’s original Marmalade Festival at Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens in Cumbria.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens is a historic estate near Penrith, Cumbria, blending Medieval, Tudor, and Georgian architecture with award-winning gardens. Home to the Hasell family since 1679, it features guided mansion tours, expansive gardens with rare plants, and the world-famous International Marmalade Festival. Visitors can enjoy tranquil parkland, a tearoom offering homemade treats, and a rich collection of art and antiques.
A brief summary to Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
- Estate Office, Penrith, Dalemain, CA11 0HB, GB
- +441768486450
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Book mansion guided tours in advance to secure your spot, as they are popular and have limited availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive gardens and parkland on foot.
- Visit the tearoom to sample award-winning marmalades and marmalade-flavored ice cream.
- Check the schedule for the International Marmalade Festival, a unique event held annually at Dalemain.
- Guide dogs are welcome in the gardens but not inside the mansion; plan accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
From Penrith railway station, take a taxi for the 10-minute drive to Dalemain Mansion. Trains from major cities like Carlisle and Newcastle connect to Penrith frequently. Taxi fares typically range from £10 to £15.
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Car
Driving from Penrith town center takes about 15 minutes via A6 and local roads. Free parking is available on-site. Note that rural roads may be narrow, and GPS navigation is recommended.
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Bus and Walk
Local bus services run from Penrith to nearby stops within 2-3 km of Dalemain. From the bus stop, expect a 30-40 minute walk on country lanes with some uneven terrain. This option suits those comfortable with moderate walking.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
Historic Layers of Dalemain Mansion
Dalemain Mansion reflects centuries of English history, with origins dating back to Saxon times. The estate’s core includes a 12th-century Pele tower built for border defense, medieval hall elements, and Tudor and Georgian expansions. Purchased by Sir Edward Hasell in 1679, the house was transformed with grand staircases, a new front door, and a Georgian façade completed in 1744 that encloses the old structure within a symmetrical courtyard. Inside, visitors find exquisite period furniture by Robert Gillow and Thomas Chippendale, early hand-painted Chinese wallpaper from the mid-18th century, and a remarkable 16th-century plaster ceiling. The mansion also houses the Westmorland & Cumberland Yeomanry Museum, showcasing local cavalry history.The Gardens: A Plantsman’s Paradise
The gardens at Dalemain are renowned for their breadth and depth of plant varieties, including over 200 old-fashioned roses, a Tudor Knot Garden, and the striking meconopsis blue poppies. The grounds encompass rolling parkland, lakes, and rugged hills, with a Deer Park that holds an ancient herd of fallow deer. The gardens have received accolades such as Gardening Which?'s Top Ten gardens of northern Britain. Visitors can explore winding paths, tranquil nooks, and enjoy seasonal blooms that create a vibrant, ever-changing landscape.The Marmalade Festival and Culinary Delights
Dalemain is internationally famous for hosting the original Marmalade Awards and Festival, a unique event celebrating this classic preserve. The estate’s tearoom offers award-winning marmalades and homemade cakes, including marmalade-flavored ice cream. The festival draws marmalade enthusiasts from around the world, adding a lively cultural dimension to this historic site. The Great Barn Tearoom, set in a cobbled courtyard, provides a cozy spot to savor these local flavors.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The mansion is accessible by guided tours only, lasting about 50 minutes, with private tours available that reveal hidden rooms and historic secrets. The gardens, tearoom, and shop are open Sunday to Friday, with free parking and mostly wheelchair-accessible paths and facilities. Guide dogs are allowed in the gardens but not inside the mansion. The estate offers a peaceful atmosphere that is far less formal and stuffy than many historic houses, making it welcoming for families and casual visitors alike.Architectural and Artistic Significance
Dalemain’s architecture is a layered tapestry of styles, from medieval defensive structures to elegant Georgian symmetry. The interiors boast fine art collections, including family portraits by notable artists and rare ceramics. The cantilevered staircase in the front hall and ornate plasterwork demonstrate exquisite craftsmanship. The housekeeper’s room reveals a hidden Priest’s Hole, a fascinating relic of religious history.Natural Setting and Cultural Heritage
Set in the Cumbrian countryside, Dalemain benefits from a sheltered valley location by the river Eamont, historically a boundary between counties. The estate’s parkland and gardens provide a serene nature escape with opportunities for wildlife spotting, including deer. The combination of natural beauty, historic architecture, and cultural events makes Dalemain a rich heritage site that connects visitors to England’s past and landscape traditions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
23.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich literary history of Allan Bank and Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
Wordsworth Grasmere
24.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
The Westmorland Family
24.3 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Rydal Cave
24.4 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Rydal Cave in Ambleside, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Bridge House
24.4 km
Explore the historic Bridge House in Ambleside, a stunning 17th-century riverside gem in the heart of the Lake District's breathtaking landscapes.
Mirehouse & Gardens
24.5 km
Explore Mirehouse & Gardens: A tranquil escape in the Lake District, blending beautiful gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views of nature.
Bowder Stone
24.6 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Lake District National Park
24.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
National Trust - Townend
25.6 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Ambleside Roman Fort
25.7 km
Experience the rich history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a key archaeological site in the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views and engaging exhibits.
Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve
26.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Lake District.
Holehird Gardens
27.0 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Wetheral Priory Gatehouse
27.2 km
Explore the Wetheral Priory Gatehouse, a charming heritage building steeped in history, nestled in the tranquil countryside of England.
Brockhole on Windermere
27.3 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Lake District Wildlife Park
27.7 km
Explore the Lake District Wildlife Park: A family-friendly destination showcasing exotic animals and stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Greystoke Pillar
3.2 km
Explore the timeless beauty and rich history of Greystoke Pillar, a captivating landmark in the heart of England's scenic Lake District.
Yanwath Hall
3.3 km
Explore Yanwath Hall, a stunning 14th-century pele tower blending medieval fortification with historic charm in Cumbria’s scenic Eden Valley.
Mayburgh Henge
4.5 km
Explore Mayburgh Henge, a monumental Late Neolithic cobblestone circle aligned with the equinox sun, steeped in ancient ritual and mystery near Eamont Bridge.
Castle Park
4.6 km
Explore Penrith Castle’s historic ruins and enjoy Castle Park’s gardens, sports, and memorials in the heart of Cumbria.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
4.7 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of The Cockpit Stone Circle, a captivating Bronze Age monument nestled in Cumbria’s scenic countryside.
Penrith Castle
4.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Penrith Castle, a historic fortress turned royal residence nestled in a scenic park in Cumbria.
Thacka Beck Nature Reserve
4.8 km
A peaceful urban nature reserve in Penrith offering diverse habitats and year-round wildlife discovery close to town.
King Arthur's Round Table
4.8 km
Explore the mysterious Neolithic earthwork near Penrith that inspired legends of King Arthur’s legendary Round Table.
Lowther Park
5.0 km
Explore 152 hectares of wild, tranquil woodland near Penrith, rich in native flora and wildlife, perfect for nature walks and peaceful escapes.
Penrith Clock Tower
5.0 km
Explore the historical charm of Penrith Clock Tower, a captivating landmark in the heart of the town, perfect for history lovers and casual visitors alike.
Askham Bridge
5.1 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Lowther offering scenic views and tranquil walks near the charming village of Askham, Cumbria.
Penrith and Eden Museum
5.1 km
Discover Cumbria’s rich history and art in Penrith’s historic Robinson's School, home to the Penrith and Eden Museum with free entry and diverse exhibits.
Brougham Hall Charitable Trust
5.3 km
Explore centuries of history and vibrant artisan culture at Brougham Hall, a fortified estate near Penrith blending medieval roots with Victorian grandeur.
Lowther Castle & Gardens
5.3 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of a Gothic castle, wander through historic and modern gardens, and let children loose in one of the UK’s largest adventure playgrounds in the heart of the Lake District.
Clifton Hall
5.3 km
Explore Clifton Hall’s 15th-century pele tower, a striking relic of medieval Cumbria’s feudal past and border conflicts.
Essential places to dine
Horse and Farrier
1.9 km
Lake District gastropub serving exceptional seasonal cuisine in a charming village setting near Ullswater.
1863 Restaurant with Rooms
2.4 km
Elegant boutique lodging and Michelin-level modern British dining in the heart of Pooley Bridge, overlooking Ullswater’s serene beauty.
The Hired Lad Restaurant
3.7 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Penrith’s Agricultural Hall serving hearty British fare in a warm, community-focused setting.
FYR Grill at North Lakes Hotel
4.1 km
Experience modern British grilling with local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere at FYR Grill, Penrith’s acclaimed restaurant within North Lakes Hotel.
The Clickham Inn
4.1 km
A stylish Mediterranean tapas inn near Penrith offering authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and a dog-friendly atmosphere on the edge of the Lake District.
Rampsbeck Restaurant
4.5 km
Contemporary British dining with lake views, seasonal Cumbrian produce, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere in Watermillock.
Four & Twenty
5.0 km
A charming Penrith bistro serving fresh, seasonal British dishes with global flair and a curated wine and cocktail selection.
The Inn on the Lake
13.3 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
The New Crown Inn
16.5 km
A charming 4-star country pub and boutique inn in Bolton, offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and warm hospitality near Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Masons Arms-CUMBRIA-LONG MARTON- APPLEBY-IN WESTMORLAND- CUMBRIA CA166BN CA16 6BN
18.9 km
Historic village pub in Cumbria offering classic British dishes, warm hospitality, and scenic gardens with sunset views.
The Stag Inn
21.2 km
Experience authentic Cumbrian hospitality at The Stag Inn—your perfect retreat in Dufton with delicious food and stunning views.
Crown & Cushion Inn
21.5 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at Crown & Cushion Inn in scenic Appleby-in-Westmorland with cozy accommodations and delicious meals.
7eventy1 Appleby-in-westmorland, Cumbria
21.6 km
Authentic Indian flavors with personalized service in the historic heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland.
The Jumble Room
24.0 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Westmorland Hotel
24.3 km
A peaceful Lake District haven offering cosy rooms, local cuisine, and scenic fell views just off the M6 motorway.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Barn
2.5 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
The Unicorn
5.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artistic treasures in Penrith’s beloved independent shop, The Unicorn, open Monday to Saturday.
Alternative
21.2 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Love the Lakes Keswick
21.3 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
21.3 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
CONQUER Trading Post
21.3 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Barry Mckay Rare Books
21.4 km
Discover rare and fine books celebrating the art and history of the book in a charming Appleby-in-Westmorland setting.
The Cupboard Under The Stairs
21.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and magical Harry Potter treasures in the heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland’s historic market street.
Booths, Keswick
21.6 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Branthwaites of Appleby
21.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and warm hospitality at Branthwaites, a charming shop nestled in the historic heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Farm Shop (Westmorland)
24.2 km
Discover the flavors of the countryside at Westmorland Farm Shop, where local produce meets a delightful shopping experience.
RockShop
24.4 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
Suziebou
25.6 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish fashion, and locally sourced homewares in the welcoming boutique of Suziebou in Dalston, Carlisle.
Much Love X
28.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Much Love X, a charming gift shop in Currock, Carlisle, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Booths, Windermere
28.9 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
2.5 km
Traditional Lakeland inn with cozy rooms, hearty pub fare, and lakeside charm in the heart of Pooley Bridge village.
Board & Elbow
4.9 km
A lively, family-friendly pub in Penrith serving traditional British classics, local ales, and offering a warm atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
The Dog Beck
5.0 km
Historic charm meets modern hospitality at The Dog Beck, Penrith’s welcoming Wetherspoon pub open from early morning until late night.
Penrith Conservative Club
5.0 km
A welcoming social venue in Penrith offering lively events, a classic bar, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria.
The Warehouse
5.1 km
A lively multi-bar nightclub in Penrith offering vibrant weekend nightlife with music, dancing, and a welcoming social scene.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
13.3 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Hare & Hounds
21.6 km
Traditional British pub in Appleby with cozy log fire, excellent real ales, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Royal Oak Inn
22.2 km
Charming 17th-century coaching inn in Appleby with cozy rooms, excellent local food, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in the heart of Eden Valley.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
23.9 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Pennine View Bar/Restaurant
24.2 km
Rustic charm and local flavors meet breathtaking Pennine views at this cozy bar and restaurant in Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Golden Rule
24.4 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
24.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
24.7 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Wainwrights' Inn
26.6 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
26.9 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The loose moose
5.0 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
18.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Windermere Social Club
29.5 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Secret Carlisle
29.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
29.9 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
30.2 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
30.3 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
31.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Moorcock Inn
46.8 km
Discover the charm of The Moorcock Inn in Sedbergh, where cozy accommodations meet delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views.
Hawes Club
54.2 km
Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.
Phoenix Club & Bar
59.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Hexham at Phoenix Club & Bar, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The Lounge C9
63.8 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
63.8 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
63.9 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The George Inn
66.1 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
