Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

4.0
(342 reviews)
Dalemain, Penrith CA11 0HB England
+44 (0) 17684 86450Official website
Gardens
Historic Sites
Sights & Landmarks
Attraction

About

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, perched on the edge of the Lake District, blends medieval, Tudor and early Georgian architecture with an award-winning plant collection. The 2,000‑acre estate sits within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosts the internationally renowned Dalemain World Marmalade Awards each year, where chefs and amateur bakers compete for the coveted golden jar. Visitors stroll through manicured gardens, explore historic rooms and sample homemade marmalade, teas and local produce in the tearoom, all while enjoying views of the surrounding high fells. The mansion is open for guided walk‑through tours, while the gardens offer free self‑guided walks and special events such as garden days, foraging courses and seasonal festivals. An inclusive experience for visitors of all ages, Dalemain provides wheelchair access to the gardens, a mobility scooter on request, and free parking for the adjoining car park. Children under twelve enter at no charge and historic house members receive free access to both the gardens and mansion on special days. Seasonally, the estate reaches full splendour from late May through September when spring bulbs and summer roses bloom, yet the shoulder months of early spring and early autumn attract quieter crowds and allow visitors to appreciate the estate without the peak‑season bustle.

Highlights

  • Award-Winning Gardens
  • Dalemain World Marmalade Awards & Festival
  • Historic Mansion and Art Collection
  • Lake District Views from the Estate

Must-See Areas

Housekeeper's Tour
Old Hall
Stumpery
Silver Fir
Garden Walks

Good to Know

Good for

Families with Children
History Enthusiasts
Garden Lovers
Foodies and Tea Lovers

Best time to visit

Late May to September, when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is most pleasant, though the shoulder months of early spring and early autumn offer quieter visits.

Pros & Cons

What visitors love

  • Breathtaking Garden
  • Friendly & Knowledgeable Guides
  • Delicious Tearoom & Marmalade
  • Accessible for Families
  • Unique Events and Festivals

Things to consider

  • Limited Wheelchair Access
  • Peak‑Season Crowds

What people are saying

"Family Friendly""Historical and Cultural""Garden Enthusiast""Marmalade Lover""Event‑Centric"

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets & pricing

Garden – Adult

£12.00

Garden – Teenager

£10.00

Garden – Child

£0.00

Friend of Dalemain

£37.00

Historic Houses Member

£0.00

RHS Member

£0.00

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens | Penrith | United Kingdom | TripAligner