DALSTON & THE CALDEW VALLEY...
Running water and the legacy of the Forest of Inglewood are the keys to understanding how this area developed.
Upstream is Rose Castle - ancient seat of the Bishops of Carlisle - and beyond is Sebergham, first founded by a hermit in 1188.
About the area
History & heritage
Dalston, clustered around its central ‘square', owes its origins to the fast-flowing River
Caldew.
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Art & culture
Jonathan Stamper's dairy farm encompasses the twin loves of his life - sculpture and farming
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Natural environment
Wreay Woods is a woodland reserve lining the steep sandstone banks of the River Petteril, south of Carlisle.
Oddities
Dalston's motto
Dalston's motto is ‘Whilst I live, I'll crow' - a reference to the sport of cockfighting which was once popular in the village. A wrought iron sculpture of a black and red cockerel sits atop the lamp base on the village green.
Chalk beck quarry
The sandstone from Chalk Beck quarry (formerly known as Shawk Beck) was used to build Carlisle Cathedral and Rose Castle.
Wragmire Oak
The Wragmire Oak was the last tree surviving of the great Forest of Inglewood and for 600 years marked the boundary between the parishes of High Hesket and St Mary's in Carlisle. After 1000 years, the tree finally succumbed to old age and fell on 13 June 1823.
Welton
Welton is named after its wells (17 of them at one time) supplying ‘pure and sweet' water to the village.
Twelve Men
Wreay is famous for its ‘parliament' of Twelve Men - a self-electing council responsible for the welfare of the villagers, who still meet once a year on Candlemas Day.
Where to stay
Using the search
This quick search allows you to find accommodation within 3 miles of Dalston. For more detailed searches click on the advanced option.
