Paddington Bear won't be the only one enjoying marmalade this weekend as Penrith is set to turn orange as it joins in to celebrate the 20th World’s Original Marmalade Awards at the historic Dalemain Mansion. The much-loved event, now in its 20th year, returns bigger and better, drawing visitors from across the globe — including marmalade fans from as far afield as Japan and Australia.
Even the sheep are getting into the Marmalade Festival spirit at Dalemain.
Held at the stunning Dalemain Mansion, just outside Penrith, the festival continues to celebrate the sticky citrus delight. Alongside the global competition and tastings, Penrith Town Centre is also getting into the marmalade spirit with a host of free and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
Profits from the Marmalade Festival will be donated to Hospice at Home with hundreds of thousands of pounds already donated over the two decades of the festival.
Entry to the at Dalemain Mansion the main hub of the 20th World Marmalade Awards festival is from 10.00am until 4.00pm on Saturday
With the announcement of the world’s best marmalade, displays with thousands of jars around the mansion, Artisan marmalade tasting and an opportunity to buy some of this years winners marmalade along with activities, talks, stalls and meet hotfooting it from Penrith will be Paddington Bear.
A number of talks will be taking place at through the day at Dalemain including Karen Jankel, Paddington Author Michael Bond’s daughter talks about Paddington and her fathers legacy.
There will also be a Marmalade Question Time with no question is too complicated or too sticky for the panel of experts.
The founder of the world famous Marmalade Awards Jane Hasell-McCosh, will be talking about the history of the Marmalade Festival along with some special guests.
A Tea Ceremony with Grand Tea Master Soshin Kimura will also take place at 12.45pm on Saturday at Dalemain but tickets for this are limited due to the intimate nature of the Tea Ceremony.
On Saturday Highlights of Penrith Goes Orange in the town include:
- Meet Paddington Bear in Little Dockray and snap a photo with everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear.
- Follow the Marmalade Trail through Penrith – trail maps can be downloaded in advance from the festival website.
- Explore local shops and businesses showcasing marmalade-themed displays and activities.
- Vote for your favourite in the Orange Window Competition.
- Enjoy live music from the UCC Orchestra and Solway Express at the Town Bandstand.
- Indulge in a competition-winning Orange Cupcake from Bake4Eden or Café4Eden.
Free Travel for Marmalade Festival Goers
In a bid to make the celebrations more accessible, free vintage coach travel will be available all day between Penrith Town Centre, Penrith Train Station, and Dalemain Mansion, with coaches running approximately every 15 minutes.
On Sunday (27st April) the Marmalade events continue with a Marmalade Church Service taking place at St. Andrews, Dacre, then you can pop along for a cup of tea at Dalemain and view the classic cars on display for The Classic Car ‘Drive It Day’ organised by the Wigton Motor Club which will be happening in the grounds of Dalemain immediately in front of the house between 11.00am and 2.00pm Entry to this is free of charge.
Whether you’re a marmalade aficionado or simply looking for a delightful day out, Penrith and Dalemain offer a warm, zesty welcome to all.
For more information on the festival and to book tickets for the talks visit www.dalemain.com
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