Dalston Hall was originally built around the 1500’s, consisting of a Peel Tower (a fortified tower for defence) and a Baronial Hall. In 1556, a West Wing was added. The Hall belonged to the Dalston family for many generations.
During the Siege of Carlisle (during the first English Civil War), Sir George Dalston was forced to flee Dalston Hall when it was requisitioned as the headquarters of the Covenanters (a Scottish religious and political movement).
In 1761, a London grocer purchased Dalston Hall and owned it for 32 years until his passing. In 1897, Edmund Wright Stead took ownership and embarked on an extensive interior refurbishment, along with the construction of the entrance side.
This transformation led to what a prominent antiquarian described as “a magnificent mansion surpassing perhaps even its ancient glories.” In 1984, Dalston Hall was designated a Grade II* listed building.
Dalston Hall was acquired by The Gilchrist Collection in 2022 and is now operating as an exclusive-use wedding venue.
