Dalemain House & Gardens

Dalemain House & Gardens (Geoff Gill / Geograph.org.uk)

The beautiful stately home of Dalemain lies in an enviable location close to the waters of Ullswater and not far from the historic market town of Penrith. What started as a Peel or Pele Tower to defend against Scottish raiders has developed over the centuries into a grand country home that is still occupied today.

The public rooms of the house are brimming with antiques and artwork, whilst the large gardens are rich in brightly coloured flowers and plants.

History

Peel or Pele Towers were built across the English border with Scotland following the Norman invasion as a defence against Scottish raiders. It’s thought that the tower at Dalemain was built during the reign of Henry II of England, who sat on the throne between 1133 and 1189. During the 14th century, the tower was expanded via the addition of a large hall, whilst further expansions took place during the 16th century.

As you approach Dalemain you may think you have stumbled across a Georgian mansion house, and that is because its grand and imposing exterior is a façade added in 1744 in a style that was typical of that era. This façade joined up various wings of the property, and other rooms were added, giving the overall impression of one Georgian manor house.

The house has remained in the ownership of the Hasell family since its purchase by Sir Edward Hasell in 1679, and was opened to the public in 1977.

Things To See

There are several rooms open to the public in the house with various antiques, artefacts, and artwork on display, much of it related to the Hasell family, including a quirky collection of toys and fascinating displays of photographs that reveal the histories of former occupants.

In the courtyard, you will find the Great Barn, which dates back to the 16th century and is now home to a small museum about agriculture and fell ponies in the Lake District.

Outside there are five-acres of grounds to explore that include a rose garden with over 200 varieties, ancient apple trees that produce fruit used in the tea room, and a children’s garden with delightful wooden carvings.

Throughout the year, Dalemain is host to a number of events. The World’s Original Marmalade Awards are held each Spring with over 2,000 jars of marmalade judged and awarded accordingly. Other events include food and plant fairs, pony shows, and vintage tractor fairs.

Useful Information

There is a tea room housed in the medieval hall serving a selection of hot and cold food using locally sourced produce. At the shop you can purchase some of the famous Dalemain Marmalade, as well as other gifts.

Only the ground floor of the house is accessible by wheelchair due to the historic nature of the building. The gardens are accessible for wheelchair users although the ground may be uneven in places.

Tickets

A discounted entrance fee is available for groups that includes a tour. This must be booked in advance by completing a booking form.

A combined ticket is available that includes discounted entry to the house and gardens along with a journey on an Ullswater Steamer. This is only available to buy online.

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