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The ancient market town of Dalton-in-Furness was once the most important town on the Furness Peninsula, with a rich history that predates medieval times. This pretty town lies in a narrow valley inland from the coast and just north-east of Barrow-in-Furness.
Dalton’s charming Market Street is renowned for its traditional public houses, independent shops and the historic Dalton Castle which towers over top of the Market Place.
Enjoy the locally owned shops scattered across the town, from gift stores selling eco-friendly and personalised gifts, to the local florists and home and garden centre with beautiful floral displays.
Try lovingly handmade food at one of the many cosy cafes or grab a coffee in a beautifully restored Italian coffee bar. There are plenty of places to indulge in a sweet treat too, from artisan chocolates to delicious milkshakes. And if you are ready to work off some calories afterwards, the community run leisure centre in Dalton offers excellent family friendly facilities, including a swimming pool and splash zone.
The spectacular Sandscale Haws Nature Reserve lies just a few miles to the west, this outstanding sand-dune habitat is a national treasure that supports a wealth of wildlife, with beautiful views across the Duddon Estuary. Perfect for enjoying the beauty of the wild coastline, with windswept beaches and amazing birdlife.
Dalton is easily accessible by rail, whether travelling south from Carlisle or west from Lancaster, Northern Rail offers a scenic coastal journey to Dalton-in-Furness and Barrow-in-Furness. Plus there are easy connections through Manchester and Preston. The town can be accessed by car via the A590.
Dalton-in-Furness was once the leading town in the Furness Peninsula thanks to the establishment of the nearby Furness Abbey, which became one of the most powerful Cistercian Abbeys in England.
Dalton Castle, a Pele Tower was built in the 14th Century to provide sanctuary for the monks of Furness Abbey from the Scottish Raiders. Over the centuries this Castle has had a chequered history and was an important place for justice, being used as a courthouse and prison for over 300 years.
Now owned by the National Trust, the Castle’s interior is currently closed while restorations take place, however the exterior remains intact and can still be admired from the centre of Market Place.
Just behind the Castle stands St Marys Church, with an impressive gothic design and medieval stained-glass panels. In the graveyard lies George Romney, the famous 18th century portrait painter who was born in the town and became one of the most notable painters of his era.
The original Market Place is still home to many fascinating structures that reflect the towns ancient history.
The old Market Cross and curved stone slabs once used for drying fish date back to 1869, while the elegant cast-iron drinking fountain with fluted columns was installed in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Further along Market Street is Tudor Square, an old watering place for horses drawing carts of iron ore to the Barrow docks.
Sandscale Haws – An outstanding national nature reserve, with beautiful sand-dunes and an abundance of wildlife.
Roanhead Beach – A picturesque sandy beach with breath taking coastal scenery. Strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming.
Furness Abbey – View the impressive remains of the abbey founded in 1123. Once the most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain.
Watching the sun go down over Morecambe Bay is the stuff memories are made of
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Cumbria
Buses to and through Broughton:
X7 Barrow - Broughton - Millom - Haverigg.
Ulverston
Our famous glass blowing experiences are back. Experience first-hand and close up, the extreme temperatures required to transform sand into glass and learn some of the 2000 year old skills first developed by the ancient Romans. During this…
Barrow-in-Furness
BarrowFull is an arts organisation led by Barrow-based partners with the aim of increasing participation in the arts. We work with the people of Barrow, enabling creative experiences to happen across the town including a vibrant programme of public…
Queen Street
Buses to and through Ulverston:
6/6A Barrow - Dalton - Ulverston.
11 Barrow - Roa Island - Ulverston.
509 Askam - Kirkby-in-Furness - Ulverston.
538 Newby Bridge - Lakeside - Bouth - Ulverston.
X12 Coniston - Ulverston.
X6 Barrow - Ulverston -…
ULVERSTON
Explore this landscape of contrasts - the soaring red sandstone ruins of Furness Abbey and the industrial heritage of Barrow, all rounded off with a spot of island hopping.
Barrow-in-Furness
Have this special coastal nature reserve all to yourselves for an after-hours adventure! Track wildlife across the reserve using different equipment and techniques, with the help of our expert guides.
Ulverston
Offering peace and tranquillity, enclosed in 38 acres of glorious woodland, 5 Star rated Black Beck Holiday Park is nestled in the heart of Britain's Lake District, near Bouth. Black Beck provides the perfect setting for short breaks and extended…
We offer a variety of Bushcraft experiences that will delight and inspire the youngest to the oldest adventurer. With survival at its core, we explore this ancient art and follow in the footsteps of our ancestors.
Barrow-in-Furness
Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.
Kirkby-in-Furness
Set in a quiet corner of Western Cumbria, and with panoramic views over Duddon Sands, South Lakeland and beyond; Longlands is a private holiday park offering its residents a luxurious oasis of calm.
Barrow-in-Furness
A Premium Hotel & Wedding Venue based in Barrow in Furness in Cumbria. Set in 14 acres of private woodland and gardens with 59 beautifully decorated rooms with a rosette acclaimed Bar & Restaurant, Oscar's. It's one of the Lake Districts hidden gems…
Barrow-in-Furness
Express Bar & Lounge serving International cuisine, ranging from pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches and a range of alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and coffee.
Barrow-in-Furness
South Walney isolated position on the southern tip of Walney Island makes it a special place for wildlife and people. It is a haven for bird life, many of which nest on the shingle beaches in the spring. No dogs allowed because of risk to wildlife.
Ulverston
Steam trains running a seasonal daily service from Haverthwaite to Lakeside via the Leven valley. Licensed tea room, gift shop, engine shed, picnic area & playground.
Ulverston
Great cycling activities for all the family in the Lake District and Cumbria. With mountains and valleys, miles of mature forest, endless lake and coastal shores, the landscape of Cumbria makes an amazing place to go cycling.
Haverthwaite, Ulverston
Why not take a break from your travels and relax in the warm, welcoming and nostalgic surroundings of our licensed ‘Station Tea Room’ just off the platform at Haverthwaite Station. Our home cooked menu includes our hearty Railwayman’s breakfast,…
Barrow-in-Furness
You will find a diverse range of events and activities at The Forum, as we again aim to bring exciting entertainment to Barrow-in-Furness. There should be something for everyone during the current season and we are very proud to welcome…
Ulverston
Come and join us at The Old Calf Shed for a behind-the-scenes look at our distillery, followed by a relaxed spirits tasting in our stylish visitor bar.
Conishead Priory, Ulverston
Peaceful and inspiring Buddhist Temple, amazing Romantic Gothic mansion, relaxing café, gift shop and book store. Bring a picnic. Six minute woodland walk to beach.
Barrow-in-Furness
Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the social and industrial history of the Furness area. The museum is a great day out for all with a popular playground, attractive Channelside walks, cafe…
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