[F]ollowing the fantastic success of the ‘Ullswater Way’ footpath around the shores of Lake Ullswater, the Lake District National Park and Dalemain Estates have announced the official new ‘loop’ extension, ‘The Four Bears Marmalade March.’ At approximately 5 miles, the new route offers walkers the chance to enjoy different features of the Ullswater Valley.
The Dalemain loop can be started from Pooley Bridge or Dalemain Mansion and allows visitors to travel on foot along the banks of the River Eamont. The route leads walkers through historic pasture lands and the charming village of Dacre, which boasts a castle, an ancient church with mysterious stone ‘bears’, and the Horse & Farrier Inn.
The Dalemain Loop has been clearly signposted with Ullswater Way Loop markers and uses Public Right of Ways and quiet roads. It is included in the Ullswater Map and Visitors Guide, available at Tourist Information Centres and attractions throughout Cumbria, and is available for free on the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ app. An illustrated account of the walk can also be found in the Official Guide to the Ullswater Way, written by Mark Richards, with £1 for every copy sold donated to the National Park to keep the Way in good repair.
Suzy Hankin of the National Park says: ‘The Dalemain Loop builds on the success of the Ullswater Way in getting people out of their cars and experiencing the beautiful Ullswater Way on foot, this time encouraging people to explore the wonderful House and Gardens at Dalemain and the historic village of Dacre. It’s a great excuse to get out and enjoy the Ullswater Valley this summer.’
Florence Lindeman of Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens says ‘The Dalemain Loop will enable walkers to connect to the beautiful Ullswater Way, providing a lovely walk from the Mansion to Pooley Bridge, the Ullswater Steamers and Dacre.’
The creators of the Dalemain loop hope that visitors will enjoy the history and tranquillity of the new walk, and that it will encourage both locals and tourists to explore this beautiful valley further.
