Waterproofs were the order of the day when our Gardening Group recently made a mid-summer trip to Dalemain in the Lake District! Nevertheless, there seemed to be no sign of damp spirits and we spent a wonderful day at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, Penrith, which also included a lovely, seven- miles steamer ship cruise on Lake Ullswater.
Dalemain is in the fabulous setting of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even on a misty day, views from the gardens of the High Fells of the Lake District are breathtaking.
The Gardens themselves are at their best in June-July; really pretty with scores of beautiful old roses, terraced herbaceous borders and less formal gardens leading down to the waters of Dacre beck and herb knot gardens.
We had an excellent guided tour of Dalemain mansion, which has been home to the Hasell Family since 1679. Over the generations, the family have built the mansion onto the site’s original, medieval manor house and it is remarkable, 12th century Pele tower which had been built to defend against raids by the Border Reivers.
One of the most surprising modern-day facts the group also learned on our tour is that since 2005, Dalemain has been the home of the World Marmalade Awards and Championship – with participant marmalade makers from over 40 countries. Naturally, Paddington Bear is a patron! This fact delighted many of our members who were able to enjoy sampling and purchasing lots of different marmalades, delicious gingerbread & marmalade cake and marmalade fudge in the café and gift shop!
We then went onto Pooley Bridge to board the steamer for a very jolly cruise on Lake Ullswater; despite the rain, with many of our members venturing onto the top deck to enjoy the views.
