Attractions and Places To See around Dalston - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dalston offer a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites in a scenic setting. The area is characterized by its fells and historical landmarks, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural discovery. Visitors can find summits with expansive views and ancient churches with significant heritage. This region provides a diverse range of points of interest for those exploring the outdoors.
Best attractions and places to see around Dalston
- The most popular attractions is Carrock Fell Summit, a summit that is a much-loved Wainwright summit in the Northern Fells of the Lake District. Its summit is notable for being one of the only places in Britain where gabbro rock is found.
- Another must-see spot is High Pike Summit, a natural monument. This summit is known for its majestic light and changing moods, affording an excellent view north over the Solway Firth and the Scottish Border hills.
- Visitors also love Carlisle Cathedral, a historical site. Founded as an Augustinian priory in 1122, it features old stone carvings, medieval choir stalls, and stained glass windows.
- Dalston is known for its summits, historical sites, and natural monuments. These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from challenging hikes to explorations of ancient architecture.
- The attractions around Dalston are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Carrock Fell Summit
Highlight • Summit
On a summer day, Carrock Beck is a superb picnic spot. I have many happy memories of playing in the stream as a child with my family.
Its summit is notable for a number of reasons. It is one of the only places in Britain where gabbro rock is found, the magnetic qualities of which can play havoc with your compass needle. It was also once the site of a Neolithic hill fort.
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High Pike Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
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St Michael's Church, Burgh by Sands
Highlight • Historical Site
It is one of only three surviving fortified churches in Cumbria and has two towers:
The west tower has wrought-iron gates, arrow slits, and a crenellated roof—originally built as a shelter during border conflicts.
The east tower was later lowered and served as a schoolroom in the 18th century.
The architecture is a mix of Norman and Gothic. A decorated entrance features beakhead motifs (a rare Romanesque detail). Stained glass windows depict northern saints and King Edward I. A Roman corbel is set into the wall.
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Carlisle Cathedral
Highlight • Historical Site
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Caldbeck Village
Highlight • Cafe
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Tips from the Community
Went up Carrock Fell the steep way from the road. Didn't take long, but blimey it was cold on the top!
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Originally built in the 12th century on the remains and with stones from the Roman fort of Aballava, part of Hadrian's Wall, King Edward I died near this site in 1307. His body lay in state here before being transferred to Westminster Abbey. It is one of only three surviving fortified churches in Cumbria and has two towers: The west tower has wrought-iron gates, arrow slits, and a crenellated roof—originally built as a shelter during border conflicts. The east tower was later lowered and served as a schoolroom in the 18th century. The architecture is a mix of Norman and Gothic. A decorated entrance features beakhead motifs (a rare Romanesque detail). Stained glass windows depict northern saints and King Edward I. A Roman corbel is set into the wall.
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The church dates from the late 12th century. Edward I died in Burgh by Sands in 1307and then lay in state in the church.
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It is possible to refill your drinking water bottles there.
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Great place to rest your legs, take in the views and appreciate the moment.
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...also great view of the Irish Sea to the west
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The bishop's church (cathedral) in Carlisle was not dedicated to one of the many people we venerate as saints, but rather the ONE God in THREE persons - God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ) and God's Holy Spirit - was chosen as its patron saint. Father Reinhard Körner writes about the mystery of the Holy Trinity: "Among the great prayer-givers in the history of Christianity... I found prayer texts in which each of the divine three was explicitly addressed - in the same prayer. When I tried to recite the texts, I could sense that these people had not only had God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in mind individually - they were addressing a divine community. And it seemed to me that they could only do this in their written prayers because they did so otherwise, quietly in their hearts."
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best natural attractions to visit around Dalston?
Dalston is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. You can explore Carrock Fell Summit, a beloved Wainwright summit known for its unique gabbro rock and historical Neolithic hill fort. Another must-see is High Pike Summit, the most northerly Lakeland fell over 2,000 feet, offering excellent views north over the Solway Firth and the Scottish Border hills.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near Dalston?
Yes, the area boasts significant historical sites. Visit Carlisle Cathedral, an Augustinian priory founded in 1122, featuring old stone carvings, medieval choir stalls, and beautiful stained glass. Another notable site is St Michael's Church, Burgh by Sands, a 12th-century fortified church built with stones from Hadrian's Wall, where King Edward I lay in state.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Dalston?
Dalston is a great base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and running trails. For hiking, explore routes like the 'View of High Pike – Oddfellows Arms, Caldbeck loop' or 'Holme Head Weir – Carlisle Cathedral loop'. For easier walks, consider the 'St Michael's Church, Dalston – Dalston Park loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Dalston and Easy hikes around Dalston guides. For runners, there are options like the 'River Caldew at Cummersdale loop'. Discover more running trails in the Running Trails around Dalston guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Dalston area?
Absolutely. Both Carlisle Cathedral and St Michael's Church, Burgh by Sands are listed as family-friendly historical sites. Additionally, Caldbeck Village offers a pleasant outing with a river, shops, and a church, suitable for families.
What are the best places for scenic views near Dalston?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to High Pike Summit, which offers excellent vistas north over the Solway Firth and the Scottish Border hills. Carrock Fell Summit also provides unique views towards the Eden Valley and the Pennines.
What is the difficulty level of the hikes around Dalston's summits?
The summits around Dalston, such as Carrock Fell Summit and High Pike Summit, are generally considered intermediate to challenging. They offer rewarding experiences for those looking for more strenuous walks with significant elevation.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, Caldbeck Village is a great spot, offering a pub and a tearoom. It's a charming place to relax and refuel after exploring the surrounding fells.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Dalston?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from the summits, especially the majestic light and changing moods at High Pike Summit. The historical depth of sites like Carlisle Cathedral and St Michael's Church, with their ancient architecture and rich stories, is also highly appreciated. The area's natural beauty and the opportunity for challenging hikes are often highlighted.
Are there any unique geological features in the Dalston area?
Yes, Carrock Fell Summit is notable for being one of the only places in Britain where gabbro rock is found. This unique geological feature can even affect compass readings due to its magnetic qualities.
What is the significance of St Michael's Church, Burgh by Sands?
St Michael's Church, Burgh by Sands is historically significant as it was originally built in the 12th century using stones from the Roman fort of Aballava, part of Hadrian's Wall. It is one of only three surviving fortified churches in Cumbria and is famous as the place where King Edward I's body lay in state in 1307.
What is special about Caldbeck Village?
Caldbeck Village is a charming settlement known for its historical connections, including being the home of the famous 19th-century huntsman John Peel. It offers a pub, tearoom, a historic church with an old cemetery, and a river, making it a pleasant stop for visitors.
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