To build your own Itinerary, click to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
Already saved an Itinerary?
Added: | |
---|---|
![]() | Center Parcs Whinfell Forest |
You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Penrith
Handsome, red-brick Penrith is the main gateway town for exploring the Eden Valley, while its easy road and rail links make Cumbria’s ancient capital a cinch to get in and out of.
Penrith’s location – at an important intersection of routes between Scotland and England and on the main route across the Pennines – is key to its historical status as a major market town. Even today, its distinctive red sandstone buildings are full of specialist, family-run shops, cosy pubs and atmospheric old pubs, while it’s Tuesday market still does a roaring trade.
The surrounding villages, the dramatic northern Lakes, the beautiful Eden Valley and the rolling Pennine hills are significant areas to explore whilst visiting this historic town. Two miles to the east is the Rheged Visitor Centre (...Read More
Handsome, red-brick Penrith is the main gateway town for exploring the Eden Valley, while its easy road and rail links make Cumbria’s ancient capital a cinch to get in and out of.
Penrith’s location – at an important intersection of routes between Scotland and England and on the main route across the Pennines – is key to its historical status as a major market town. Even today, its distinctive red sandstone buildings are full of specialist, family-run shops, cosy pubs and atmospheric old pubs, while it’s Tuesday market still does a roaring trade.
The surrounding villages, the dramatic northern Lakes, the beautiful Eden Valley and the rolling Pennine hills are significant areas to explore whilst visiting this historic town. Two miles to the east is the Rheged Visitor Centre (named after an ancient Celtic kingdom) where you’ll find a retail hall and an IMAX cinema; just nearby is the sprawling Lowther country estate, which is slowly being restored to its former glory.
Ancient sites including a circular earthenwork bounded by a ditch (nicknamed ‘King Arthur’s Round Table’) at Eamont Bridge and the nearby monolith at Mayburgh Henge indicate that this area was inhabited during prehistoric times. Always keen to exploit good transport routes, the Romans built the fort of Voreda about six miles north of Penrith and linked it to another at Brocavum, now Brougham Castle.
In the 9th and 10th centuries, Penrith was the capital of Cumbria – a semi-independent state that was part of the Strathclyde region of Scotland. In 1295 Edward I captured the town, and for the next 150 years it was subject to numerous border skirmishes between the Scots and the English. These relentless attacks led to the construction of a series of defensive pele towers which were developed into the castle you see today.
The castle was associated with some of the key figures of English medieval history. One of its main architects was Ralph Neville, the first earl of Westmoreland. His grandson Richard, the 16th Earl of Warwick, became a major player in the Wars of the Roses and was nicknamed the ‘Kingmaker’ for his part in the fortunes of two kings – including Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who based himself at Penrith Castle before finally becoming King Richard III.
Rowcliffe Lane, a street hardly noticed by people today, was once at the industrial heart of Penrith. Although only 8 feet wide in places, it was filled with tailors, coopers, saddlers, rope-makers and whitesmiths in the 17th century. Wagons and coaches would regularly travel up and down the narrow thoroughfare, and some signs of its industrial past are still evident today.
The Musgrave family owned Musgrave Hall on Middlegate (now occupied by the British Legion) - their coat of arms can be seen on the lintel over the doorway. A clock tower was erected in the centre of Penrith in memory of their eldest son, Philip, who died in Madrid in 1859 at the age of 26.
William Wordsworth and his sister, Dorothy, attended school in St Andrew's Place, and it was here that he first met Mary Hutchinson, his future wife. Wordsworth's grandparents owned the Moot Hall where his mother died in 1778. The Moot Hall was demolished in the 1830s and replaced by Arnison's drapery shop.
Lazonby - Lazonby lays claim to the largest auction mart for grey-faced mules in the country.
Little Salkeld - Little Salkeld is home to a fully working corn mill and has one of the largest stone circles in the UK on its doorstep.
Eamont Bridge - A small village south of Penrith containing many historic houses and inns. Historically, the village was used by travellers as a crossing point of the River Eamont.
Middle Eden/Pennines End - Just to the southeast of the Carlisle area, the Middle River Eden gorges lie at the heart of this glacial sculptured, dry stone walled, sandstone cottage, sleepy traditional Cumbrian Village landscape.
Flanked by The Lake District National Park to the West and The Pennines to the East this area of natural beauty and quiet country lanes is one of Cumbria's hidden Gems.
Simmerson Hill high above Castle Carrock and The Kings Forest marks a spectacular end to the Pennine Chain, with views eastwards towards Hexham and Newcastle, Northwards to Hadrian's Wall, Border Reiver (the Debatable Lands) and Scotland, and Westward to the Solway Firth, The Isle of Man and The Lake District.
The Settle & Carlisle scenic railway runs through the area and stops at Armathwaite and Lazonby giving access to this diverse landscape.
The Tour of Britain cycle route and ancient Scottish cattle droving lanes and paths criss cross the area, while grouse fells, salmon & trout fishing, horse ridding and country pursuits can be enjoyed by visitors throughout Middle Eden.
In St Andrew’s churchyard lies the Giant’s Grave, possible resting place of Owen, King of Cumbria in the 10th century. It comprises two pre-Norman crosses and four Norse ‘hogback’ tombstones. Legend also associates the grave with Sir Owen Caesarius, a mythical giant who supposedly lived in a cave by the River Eamont.
This is in the forecourt of the Greengarth home for the elderly in Bridge Lane. Its hollowed out centre would have held vinegar or some other disinfecting agent and here the townsfolk would place their money in exchange for food brought in by farmers from outside the town.
The moor was the site of the last battle on English soil between Scottish and English armies on the 18 December 1745. The dead are buried in the village of Clifton – the Scots under an oak tree (known as the Rebel Tree) at the end of Town End Croft (a plaque marks the spot); the English in the churchyard.
Beacon Hill provides a dramatic wooded backdrop to the town of Penrith. On the summit stands Beacon Pike, a stone tower dating back to 1719 that marks the spot where bonfires were lit during times of conflict to spread the word quickly to other parts of the county.
A smaller henge approximately 400 metres away, dating back to around 2000 BC. A flat central platform is surrounded by a circular ditch and an earth bank.
Built next to the Roman fort of Brocavum, on the banks of the river Eamont, the castle became a medieval stronghold designed to repel invasion by the Scots. It was restored in the 1650s. Within 100 years the castle was stripped and left in ruins. It is now under the protection of English Heritage who permit access to parts of the castle.
Read Less1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…
Big Fish Comedy Club brings new voices in comedy to venues across Cumbria. Our triannual showcase…
Our shortest route has no huge hills to tackle, but the lofty northern fells are an ever-present…
Arragons Cycle Centre is run by Phil & Sarah with the help of a dedicated team of Sales Staff and…
A beautiful Norman church on site of 7th century monastery in peaceful Lakeland location and home…
Perusing the Black Cat Gin range is certainly thirsty work! Luckily you can taste a tipple or two…
Design & make 'three Silver rings' with Sterling Silver and some Semi-Precious Stones with Melinda…
'Short Cut to Nature Journalling' with Steve Pardue Have you wanted to create a nature journal…
Black Cat Distillery operates out of a stunning fortified and walled Medieval Hall at Brougham. Our…
Our hand-picked selection of lodges, pods and indulgent glamping tents feature every modern…
The Fellrunner Buses are operated and driven by local volunteers for the benefit of the community…
At Dalemain, we have focused on independent growers and specialist nurseries to protect the…
Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the…
Eycott Hill is a great place to take a short walk with amazing views across Lake District fells.…
We are hosting a traditional celebration of the harvest, offering visitors a chance to explore the…
Luxury one and two bedroom Mews apartments set in the grounds of the Roundthorn Country House,…
A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where…
Rookin House offers a wide range of activities including Horse Riding, Quad Biking, Go-Karting,…
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…
A choice of self-catering accommodation, owned and operated by the Heath Family. The award-winning…
Welcome to The Queen's Head, a unique and delightful 17th-century village pub nestled in the heart…
Since 1910, The Toffee Shop has been making delicious Fudge and Toffee, using a carefully guarded…
Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…
Design and Planting Tips for a Small Garden with Cumbrian Based lecturer, garden designer &…
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…
Big Fish Comedy Club brings new voices in comedy to venues across Cumbria. Our triannual showcase…
Our shortest route has no huge hills to tackle, but the lofty northern fells are an ever-present…
Arragons Cycle Centre is run by Phil & Sarah with the help of a dedicated team of Sales Staff and…
A beautiful Norman church on site of 7th century monastery in peaceful Lakeland location and home…
Perusing the Black Cat Gin range is certainly thirsty work! Luckily you can taste a tipple or two…
Arragons Cycle Centre is run by Phil & Sarah with the help of a dedicated team of Sales Staff and…
A beautiful Norman church on site of 7th century monastery in peaceful Lakeland location and home…
Perusing the Black Cat Gin range is certainly thirsty work! Luckily you can taste a tipple or two…
Design & make 'three Silver rings' with Sterling Silver and some Semi-Precious Stones with Melinda…
'Short Cut to Nature Journalling' with Steve Pardue Have you wanted to create a nature journal…
Black Cat Distillery operates out of a stunning fortified and walled Medieval Hall at Brougham. Our…
Our hand-picked selection of lodges, pods and indulgent glamping tents feature every modern…
The Fellrunner Buses are operated and driven by local volunteers for the benefit of the community…
At Dalemain, we have focused on independent growers and specialist nurseries to protect the…
Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the…
Eycott Hill is a great place to take a short walk with amazing views across Lake District fells.…
We are hosting a traditional celebration of the harvest, offering visitors a chance to explore the…
Luxury one and two bedroom Mews apartments set in the grounds of the Roundthorn Country House,…
A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where…
Rookin House offers a wide range of activities including Horse Riding, Quad Biking, Go-Karting,…
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…
A choice of self-catering accommodation, owned and operated by the Heath Family. The award-winning…
Welcome to The Queen's Head, a unique and delightful 17th-century village pub nestled in the heart…
Since 1910, The Toffee Shop has been making delicious Fudge and Toffee, using a carefully guarded…
Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…
Design and Planting Tips for a Small Garden with Cumbrian Based lecturer, garden designer &…
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…
Big Fish Comedy Club brings new voices in comedy to venues across Cumbria. Our triannual showcase…
Our shortest route has no huge hills to tackle, but the lofty northern fells are an ever-present…
Eden Valley The most peaceful haven of pastoral calm
Number of results: 111
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Penrith
Arragons Cycle Centre is run by Phil & Sarah with the help of a dedicated team of Sales Staff and Cycle Technicians. The business has been in the family for 50 years, with Sarah's parents owning the shop previously.
Bridge Ln, Penrith
Based in Cumbria, Eden Arts are an artist led company dedicated to creating and facilitating change through culture and arts activities.
PENRITH
A beautiful Norman church on site of 7th century monastery in peaceful Lakeland location and home of the Dacre Bears, four unique medieval stone statues.
Penrith
Perusing the Black Cat Gin range is certainly thirsty work! Luckily you can taste a tipple or two of our juniper-based ambrosia to help the process along. I already know that you will find your new favourite gin from our award winning range! We have…
Penrith
Black Cat Distillery operates out of a stunning fortified and walled Medieval Hall at Brougham. Our gin is infused with the echoes of the past that permeate the very walls! We distill, fill and label our products on site.
Newbiggin, Penrith
Our hand-picked selection of lodges, pods and indulgent glamping tents feature every modern convenience you could ever need, plus a few added Leisure Resorts luxuries.
Cumbria
The Fellrunner Buses are operated and driven by local volunteers for the benefit of the community.They serve most of the villages in the Penrith area with services to Penrith or Carlisle.
Ullswater, Penrith
Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the charming village of Pooley Bridge, the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ pier, and Ullswater itself.
Penrith
Eycott Hill is a great place to take a short walk with amazing views across Lake District fells. With no long walk-in to get up high, you can park on location and it is a suitable walk for all the family. Dogs on leads are welcome.
Penrith
Luxury one and two bedroom Mews apartments set in the grounds of the Roundthorn Country House, overlooking the Eden Valley and Lakeland Fells. Guests are welcome to enjoy the use of the hotel facilities on site.
Penrith
A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where stories are told, ideas are sparked and the Cumbrian landscape is a constant source of inspiration.
Troutbeck, Penrith
Rookin House offers a wide range of activities including Horse Riding, Quad Biking, Go-Karting, Archery, Clay Pigeon Shooting and Stalwart Army truck, Paintballing, Air Rifles and many more!
Pooley Bridge
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor clothing and a "canine corner" so you can spoil your best friend! We also produce our own hand made fudge in store and its is free to sample!
Pooley Bridge
A choice of self-catering accommodation, owned and operated by the Heath Family. The award-winning Hillcroft Park is set in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, and offers year-round holiday accommodation to suit every taste and pocket.
Penrith
Welcome to The Queen's Head, a unique and delightful 17th-century village pub nestled in the heart of Askham, a picturesque village in the Lake District. As part of the esteemed Askham Collection, our pub offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere, along…
Penrith
Since 1910, The Toffee Shop has been making delicious Fudge and Toffee, using a carefully guarded secret recipe. Making and wrapping all our toffee and fudge by hand on the premises. - Even using the same brass pans!
Ullswater, Penrith
Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan arrangement which incorporates a lounge area with an L-shaped sofa for cosy nights in, a well-equipped kitchen including an oven and dishwasher, and a…
Ullswater
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family affair who enjoy getting the little things just right, welcoming guests back times and again to share in a slice of Lake District paradise.
Our shortest route has no huge hills to tackle, but the lofty northern fells are an ever-present backdrop as you ride westwards along quiet country lanes to the pretty village of Greystoke and back.
Penrith
A traditional tearoom set in a historic barn with homemade food and freshly brewed coffee, alongside Dalemain’s marmalade gift shop.
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL
We are now retrieving your search results. Please wait, this may take up to 30 seconds
Supporting the Destination
Quality Guarantee
We are now retrieving real time availability results. Please wait, this may take up to 30 seconds.