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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.
Safari Zoo, Cumbria – Home to 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals. This conservation zoo is a great day out for families.
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.
Please support our local businesses by following HM Government COVID-19 safety guidelines when you visit.
The Welcome Back to High Streets Project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and HM Government as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. More information here.
Watching the sun go down over Morecambe Bay is the stuff memories are made of
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Barrow-in-Furness
Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.
Ulverston
The Coro is an historic arts, culture and entertainment venue presenting Theatre, Music, Comedy, Community, Talks and Dance all year round in Ulverston, Cumbria at the edge of the Lake District.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
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Barrow-in-Furness
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525 reviewsUlverston
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227 reviewsConishead 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.
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…
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70 reviewsBroughton-in-Furness
Thornthwaite Farm is set amidst the beautiful scenery of the Woodland Valley. We have four cottages including our 4 star VisitEngland Gold Award barn conversion and a handbuilt Log Cabin all with stunning views of the Lakeland fells.
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
Bright, modern hotel in the heart of Barrow in Furness with free WI-FI and breakfast included..
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Buses to and through Broughton:
X7 Barrow - Broughton - Millom - Haverigg.
Cumbria
The Cumbria Way runs through the heart of the Lake District, from the attractive market town of Ulverston on the shores of Morecambe Bay, to the historic city of Carlisle close to the Scottish Border, passing through some of the finest scenery of…
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.
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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.
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