Things to do in Penrith… 

A large market town on the outskirts of the Lake District, Penrith is the shopping, business and social centre of the Eden District and provides easy access to the Eden Valley, the Pennines and the Lake District. As well as being a perfect base to explore nearby beauty spots, there’s also plenty to do in the town and the surrounding areas… 

  • Lowther Castle and Gardens

A stunning 19th century piece of history, Lowther Castle and Gardens is a great family day out offering dramatic ruins, extensive gardens and an adventure playground. The castle is full of stories told through exhibitions reflecting the history of the building and the Lowther family, who have lived in the castle for over 850 years. Gardens and woodlands, ideal for exploring with dogs and children, surround 130 acres of the castle. There is also an option for cycle hire to explore the wider estate. After a long day of exploring and learning, you can relax with some tasty food and a coffee at the castle café.

  • Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre

Situated beside the entrance to Lowther Castle in the grounds of the walled garden, the Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre offers visitors the chance to see over 150 falcons, hawks, eagles, buzzards and owls all set in picturesque, unspoilt surroundings. The beautiful area is the ideal backdrop to watch the birds in action, with the centre hosting daily bird flying displays between 2pm-4pm. Once you’ve explored the centre, there is a quaint vintage tearoom and gift shop to visit on your way out.

  • Penrith Castle

A medieval 14th century ruin, Penrith Castle sits in the centre of Penrith beside the railway station and is owned by English Heritage. The castle was built by warden of the West March, Ralph Neville to defend the Scottish border and placed beside the site of an old Roman fort. Today, the castle walls have survived and can be seen at their original, full height.

  • Dalemain Mansion and Historic Gardens

Situated near the banks of the River Eamont around 5 miles south-west of Penrith, Dalemain Mansion is a country house dating back to the 12th century boasting a stunning Georgian façade of pink stone. The house and gardens are both open to the public to explore, with the same family who have resided here for over 300 years still living in the home. The grand gardens have many rare plants and over 100 old-fashioned roses. Once you’ve explored the house and gardens, there is a Medieval Hall Tearoom and gift shop to end the day. The stately home is famous for hosing the annual ‘World’s Original Marmalade Awards & Festival,’ a must-visit event if you’re visiting the area in May. 

  • Hutton-in-the Forest 

Another spectacular piece of history in Penrith, Hutton-in-the-Forest is the historic home of Lord & Lady Inglewood surrounded by a medieval forest and extensive gardens. Originally built as a medieval stronghold, generations have added to the house, which shows a wide range of architectural styles from 17th century up to now. The house is open to the public to explore showcasing fine collections of furniture, ceramics, tapestry and portraits alongside gardens filled with a large collection of herbaceous plants. End the day with a light lunch, sandwich or coffee at the Cloisters Tea Room. 

  • Penrith Beacon 

Standing tall upon Beacon Hill, the Penrith Beacon is a monument dating back to 1719, which has been lit throughout history during times of war and emergency since the time of Henry VIII. Today, you can walk up to the beacon to enjoy stunning views across the Eden Valley and towards the mountains of the Lake District.

  • Penrith and Eden Museum

Situated in the old Robinsons’ School building dating back to 1670, the Penrith and Eden Museum explores the history of the area displaying archaeology, art, social, cultural and natural history and geology of Penrith. Displays include fossils, artefacts from the Roman and Neolithic ages, art from Victorian painters and mementos from a local Crimean War hero. The museum is free to enter and is an ideal family day out. 

  • Ullswater 

Ullswater, the second largest lake in England is accessible from Penrith via a 10-minute drive or bus journey. A trip to Ullswater can include hiking the 20-mile Ullswater Way route, taking a ride on Ullswater Steamers or wild swimming in the lake. The lake is surrounded by a number of pretty, quaint villages to explore including Glenridding, Patterdale, Pooley Bridge and Howtown. These villages are popular amongst mountain walkers, providing access to routes up popular Wainwrights including Helvellyn, High Street, Angletarn Pikes and many more. 

Kirkstone Pass also runs between Windermere and Ullswater, with England’s third highest pub. The Kirkstone Pass Inn sitting at the top. 

  • Aira Force 

One of the most famous waterfalls in the Lake District, Aira Force is a 70 feet high force falling below an arched stone footbridge. The land surrounding the waterfall was landscaped in 1970’s by the Howard family of Greystoke Castle creating a Victorian pleasure garden with waterfalls, an arboretum and rock scenery alongside establishing a network of tracks, footpaths and bridges throughout the area. The land is now owned by the National Trust who have provided viewing platforms for visitors to see the waterfall from its best angles. 

  • Haweswater

Around 25 minutes drive away from Penrith, Haweswater reservoir sits in the valley of Mardale covering old villages. The construction of the reservoir in 1929 was a controversial topic at the time, due to the valley being occupied by the farming villages Measand and Mardale Green; plans involved relocating the population and flooding the valley. Manchester Corporation were granted permission to build the reservoir, resulting in the farms, village buildings and church being pulled down. Today, tourists often visit Haweswater during times of drought; the low water level reveals remains of the drowned village including the old road and stone wall ruins. Not only could you spot historic ruins here, for most of the last five decades, Haweswater was the only place in England you could spot golden eagles; unfortunately, it is believed the last male died in 2015 and there has not yet been any projects to reintroduce them. 

  • Askham 

Around 4 miles south of Penrith, Askham is a picturesque village filled with 18th century cottages adjoining the river Lowther. The village is home to the historic Askham Hall, an Elizabethan mansion dating back to the 14th century, which is now used as a luxury hotel, wedding venue and home to a Michelin Star restaurant. The village still has its traditional, relaxed quirks including the 17th century Queens Head pub and the 18th century Punch Bowl pub which both retain character through their original features.