Itinerary: Explore beautiful Ullswater and historic Penrith

If you want to split your day and spend time in both Penrith and Ullswater, this is the itinerary for you! 

Spend a little time in Penrith - known as the "old red town" because of its sandstone buildings - with its ancient yards and streets home to many independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. 

Then discover Ullswater - one of "England's most beautiful lakes" surrounded by dramatic mountains and inspiring Lake District countryside.

Penrith

Enjoy a leisurely walk around Penrith and explore the interesting and independent shops.  Explore Penrith and Eden Museum to learn more of the history of the area.  The adjoining Penrith Tourist Information Centre is a great place to pick up leaflets and get useful information to make the most of your visit!  Nearby is the Eden Valley Artistic Network (EVAN Gallery) where a host of local artists showcase their work.  Penrith Castle - once the home of Richard III.  Neighbouring Penrith Castle Park is ideal for a stroll or picnic a round of mini golf or a spot of tennis.

You can discover more of the history of Penrith with one of our Penrith Heritage Trails. 

A walk to Penrith Beacon gives magnificent views on a clear day across the Eden Valley to the Lakeland hills.  

Enjoy a mid-morning coffee in one of the welcoming coffee shops and tea rooms.  A Farmers’ Market is held on the third Tuesday of the month in the Market Square.

Visit nearby Rheged with its array of shops, 3D cinema, cafes and changing exhibitions.

The Eamont Way (Penrith to Pooley Bridge) is a signed walking trail of 5.5 miles (8.8km) connecting Penrith to Pooley Bridge. Starting at Penrith Railway Station, the route follows a signed walking route all the way to Pooley Bridge village via the beautiful River Eamont valley.  Why not walk one way and get the bus back to Penrith?

Ullswater

Travel to Ullswater for a lunch stop in Pooley Bridge or Glenridding in one of the cafes, restaurants, hotels and Inns.  Or bring a packed lunch made with local produce and sit by the Lake which gave inspiration to Wordsworth for his Daffodil’s poem (visit in Spring time to see them!)

There are some lovely walks to enjoy, including The Ullswater Way - a stunning 20 mile route around Ullswater which can be walked in either direction and from any starting point.  Plus more gentle walks for all the family.  There are also water activities to enjoy including canoeing and sailing, plus fishing and horse riding.

Enjoy a trip on one of the Ullswater ‘Steamers,’ hop on and off at stops around the lake for refreshments and a wander around. 

Take a walk to Aira Force Waterfall - reached by an enchanting stroll through ancient woodland and landscaped glades - look out for red squirrels along the way!