Dalemain Historic Garden
"Welcome to the garden. Over the years that I have lived at Dalemain it has grown and changed and has slowly emerged as my garden reflecting me and my family and the people who have worked in it and loved it over the last twenty years. I was lucky to inherit a well established and historic garden with many ancient trees and shrubs that give it shape and form and fascinating depth. But with each new generation comes change, new plants and different passions.
I sometimes think that the garden is like my desert island discs of plants from the moment I came to live here to the present. The moment when my children were small and deep muddy holes were fun to make and where we planted the animal plants, and then there was a more structured approach to the garden and now it is all about colour and texture and shape. Of course there is also Marmalade which seems to pervade everything that we do and is an important ingredient even in the garden and is reflected in the lovely orange trees that we have planted in pots in the summer.
We welcome everyone young and old to experience a little of the magic that is an integral part of the garden and we hope that everyone will enjoy and take away a little piece of Cumberland in their hearts"
Jane Hasell-McCosh
The garden at Dalemain was described by Rosemary Verey as a garden to return to whereby each visit is a fresh adventure.
Visit our delightful 5 acre plantsman's garden of richly planted herbaceous borders with an intriguing and unusual combination of flowers.
Just 2 miles from Ullswater in the heart of Lakeland the sheltered gardens at Dalemain are a haven of tranquillity.
Wander along the Georgian terrace border being sure not to miss the Silver Fir (Abies cephalonica) which is now the biggest of its type in the British Isles. Then stroll in the Tudor knot garden, continue along the Rose Walk with over 200 old fashioned roses, at their very best in June/July when the heavenly scent is intoxicating. The ancient apple trees in this area of the garden are named 18th/19th century varieties with nearly 30 different kinds. The fruit from these trees is used in the tearoom in several of the delicious recipes available throughout the year. At the top of the rose walk you arrive at the Gazebo still with its 18th century seating which in late summer is almost hidden by a profusion of Clematis tangutica. From here you will find the entrance into shady Lob's Wood.
Following your visit to Lob's Wood return to the garden and head down the lawn to enjoy the colour themed herbaceous borders on each side, before discovering the Low Garden with its pond and riverside walks. In late May and early June see the dazzling display of Himalayan Blue Poppies ('Meconopsis Dalemain').
The Children's Garden
During your visit don't miss the children's garden, developed by Mrs Hasell-McCosh when her children were quite small. Most of the plants in the garden have animals in their common names, such as Bear's Breeches (Acanthus), Snapdragon (Antirrhinum) and Foxglove (Digitalis). Each plant is enhanced for added enjoyment by the recent introduction of locally hand crafted wooden animal signs which are also available for purchase in our gift shop.
Sheepdog Trials at Dalemain this Saturday 25th May. Starts at 9am. FREE entry to the Show Field
DALEMAIN Charity Open - Proceeds to the MS Society.
The Home of the World's Original Marmalade Awards Wins Prestigious Garden of the Year Award 2013
The charming English gardens of Dalemain, nestled in the Lake District, have won the 2013 Garden of the Year Award sponsored by the Historic Houses Association and Christie’s. This prestigious national award, now in its 29th year, is designed to recognise the importance of gardens with outstanding horticultural and public appeal, either in their own right or as the setting for an historic house.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens Opening times
The Historic House & Gardens officially opened for the Summer Season on Sunday 24 March. We are open Sunday to Thursday.
Yet another record number of jars sent into the World's Original Marmalade Awards held at Dalemain annually in March
An international competition founded by Jane Hasell-McCosh. For the past eight years, Dalemain has hosted The World’s Original Marmalade Awards & Festival firmly placing it at the centre of the marmalade map. From 50 jars in 2005, the Awards have grown each year and this year, nearly 2,000 jars of marmalade were entered and judged.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens wins prestigious Heritage Award for best event
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens in Penrith has been presented with a prestigious Hudson’s Heritage Award for Best Event - The World’s Original Marmalade Awards & Festival.
