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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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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.
Ulverston
Swarthmoor Hall is a 17th century, Grade II* listed country house. The Hall is regarded as the cradle of Quakerism as it was here in 1652 that the Quaker movement was formed during a period of enormous political and religious turmoil.
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.
Ulverston
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!
Ulverston
Swarthmoor Hall self-catering accommodation provides individuals, couples, families and pets, a cosy and comfortable place to stay. Located near the vibrant town of Ulverston, within a stones throw of the Lakes, our 5 fully equipped units, are the…
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.
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.
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.
Cumbria-wide
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…
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
Express Bar & Lounge serving International cuisine, ranging from pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches and a range of alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and coffee.
Cumbria
Buses to and through Broughton:
X7 Barrow - Broughton - Millom - Haverigg.
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.
Millom
Ulverston
Lonsdale House Boutique Apartments is a self-catering apartment in Ulverston, Lake District. We offer 13 beautifully designed, self-contained, pet-friendly apartments suitable for leisure, family, and business travel. Each apartment combines comfort…
Barrow-in-Furness
With stunning views across Morecambe bay, this shingle island reserve is full of interest and a fantastic place for bird watching. South Walney Nature Reserve is home to the only grey seal colony in Cumbria. An off-road mobility tramper can be…
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…
Barrow-in-Furness
Now a ruin, Furness Abbey was once the second most powerful Cistercian monastery in Britain, after Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire.
Abbey Approach, Barrow-in-Furness
Abbey mill is an independent coffee shop situated in a 15th century building overlooking Furness Abbey . Join us for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea and Lakes ice cream. Homemade scones and cranberry teacakes our speciality . Full afternoon tea…
Barrow-in-Furness
Set in 45 acres, Barrow's award-winning park provides the perfect place to stroll on sunny afternoons. Barrow Park..... always something going on, always something growing on!
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