Dalton
Dalton is a little town with a population of just under 8,000 with stunning fine properties. Dalton is best for its traditional pubs, independent shops, and pub gardens, Dalton’s Market Street is one of the town’s most loveable streets and the historic Dalton Castle towers over the top of the Market Place.
Dalton is known for being able to enjoy the locally owned shops across the town; there are a variety of gift stores that sell eco-friendly and personalized gifts, and local florists. Dalton’s garden centres is certainly a must go with many gorgeous floral displays to choose from.
In Dalton you can choose from many different tasty handmade food at one of the many cosy cafes in Dalton including a dazzling restored Italian Coffee Bar. There are also plenty of places to indulge in a sweet treat too, from high-quality chocolates to delicious milkshakes. As a bonus, if you are looking for a way to burn some calories once you’ve finished, Dalton has a community-operated swimming leisure center that contains a range of different activities to enjoy on your own or with family.
Dalton Castle is a national trust property that can be visited. The castle is set in a square and is a keep only. Dalton Castle is small built as a rectangle 45 feet by 30 feet with walls at a maximum of 6 feet thick. The castle has never been lived in, but was used as court and prison. Nowadays after a restoration they have in display some recently restored armour that belongs to the castle. You can get a guided tour around this small, but intriguing building that gives a fascinating insight into the lives of the Abbot and monks of Furness, at one time amongst the most powerful in the country.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Dalton has to be South Lakes Safari Zoo Home to 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals is a great value day out for all the family with big cats, lots of monkeys. It is overall a fantastic close up walk-through safari. You can also feed the giraffes and lemurs at extra costs. The restaurant serves food which is delicious. The place is huge takes around 2-3 hours so plenty walking can be done.
Just behind Dalton Castle stands St Mary’s Church, The architects were Edward Paley and Hubert Austin of Lancaster, who designed many churches across the north of England. Dalton’s St Mary’s is an Gothic Revival style and is best known for the red and white chequerboard pattern on the stonework. The church is also known for its beautiful stained-glass panels which also includes a 14th century font that came from the nearby Furness Abbey. You can find the grave of George Romney who was born in Dalton and is a famous painter and also a mass grave for the unfortunate outbreak of the plague in 1631 when half of Dalton were buried which a memorial plaque now stands.