Dalemain is a Grade I listed historic country house located in the Lake District Park approximately five miles southwest of Penrith in Cumbria, England. The estate has a long and rich history, with evidence of a Saxon settlement at the site. The River Eamont, which historically marked the boundary between Cumberland and Westmorland, was fordable here, and the valley provided natural shelter from harsh weather conditions. During the reign of King Henry II, a pele tower was constructed at Dalemain to defend against Scottish raiders. The old hall, dating back to the 12th century, was later expanded with wings added in the 16th century. The estate underwent significant transformation in 1679 when Sir Edward Hasell, formerly the steward to Lady Anne Clifford, purchased Dalemain. It has remained in the Hasell family ever since. Following his acquisition, Sir Edward made substantial alterations, including the construction of a grand staircase, modernization of the farmyard, and the addition of a retaining wall below the terrace. The most striking change to Dalemain came in 1744 when Sir Edwardβs son completed the impressive Georgian front, enclosing the older sections within a central courtyard. This addition introduced symmetrical, neoclassical features, including a cantilevered staircase in the new front hall. In 1748, the garden faΓ§ade was also rebuilt to match the Georgian front. Since then, Dalemain has undergone no major structural alterations. The courtyard itself evolved from a medieval hamlet built around the defensive pele tower to a working farmstead, with many original buildings still standing. Above the courtyard, the Deer Park has remained home to a herd of fallow deer for centuries.
Open at selected times throughout the year so check out their website for details. You can park in their carpark and stay for a lovely cream tea or something more substantual in their tearoom.
I took off just outside the property but you still get a clear view from just off the roadside.
View and discuss this location on Grey Arrows.
Co-ordinates: 54.63439, -2.81132 • what3words: ///angel.unwraps.closet
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