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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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Ulverston
Swarthmoor Hall is a 17th century, Grade II* listed country house. It is known as the cradle of Quakerism as the movement was founded here almost 400 years ago. Visitors can relax in our cosy cafe or browse for something special in our gift shop.…
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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
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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.
Ulverston
The Laurel and Hardy Museum celebrates the life and career of Stan Laurel, born in Ulverston.
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…
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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…
Duddon Bridge, Broughton-in-Furness
Located in the picturesque Duddon Valley near the market town of Broughton-in-Furness awaits the stylish Cow Barn. With 3 sunny bedrooms, a modern airy interior, cosy log-burner & pretty garden, it’s the ideal base for a break in the Lakes
Barrow-in-Furness
Bright, modern hotel in the heart of Barrow in Furness with free WI-FI and breakfast included..
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Join us, Andy & Zoe, to create your own spirits. Groups are small and we guide you through the process from choosing your botanicals to finding the perfect abv. Start with a tour, include a few sweet treats and it’s an afternoon to remember!
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…
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.
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
West Shore car park provides free parking, an ideal place to do lovely coastal walks and the North walney nature reserve is well worth a visit too.
Millom
Walney Island
NCN 700 – From Walney Island near Barrow to Glasson Dock, Lancaster, this cycle route takes in breathtaking scenery of Morecambe Bay spectacular coastline, quiet roads, greenways, canal towpaths and promenades.
Millom
Hodbarrow Nature Reserve is a coastal lagoon and area of grassland which is located on the site of a former iron mine on the west coast of Cumbria, close to the town of Millom.
ULVERSTON
Parking spaces: General: 43, Disabled spaces: 3, Motorcycle spaces: Can use any of the spaces with consideration. No height restrictions.
Open 7 days a week including bank holidays from 8am to 6pm.
Ulverston
England's last luxury glassblowing factory making crystal for royal families & luxury stores worldwide. As seen on Downton Abbey, James Bond and even in the new Bentleys. Factory shop, live demonstrations and experiences available throughout the…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
216 reviewsULVERSTON
Free charging point for Electric Bikes
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