Itinerary: Explore the historic market town of Penrith

Spend a day 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. 

Go car free - Penrith Bus Station is centrally located and Penrith North Lakes’ train station is just a few minutes walk from the centre of town.

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. 

Explore Penrith Castle - once the home of Richard III.  Neighbouring Penrith Castle Park is ideal for a stroll or picnic and there are golf and tennis courts. 

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

Penrith Cinema shows the latest releases and Penrith Leisure Centre has a swimming pool and sports facilities - both are also great places to visit when the weather is wet!

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.

A walk to Penrith Beacon gives magnificent views on a clear day across the Eden Valley to the hills of Lakeland.  Or enjoy a peaceful stroll around Thacka Beck Nature Reserve, home to a wealth of wildlife.

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

Nearby historic houses and gardens include Dalemain Mansion and Historic Gardens, home to 'The World's Original Marmalade Awards and Festival’, Hutton-in-the-Forest and Lowther Castle and Gardens with its dramatic ruins, gardens and an adventure playground.  All well worth a visit.

Upfront Puppet Theatre will delight audiences of all ages with its puppet shows and changing programme of exhibitions. 

Brougham Castle founded in the early 13th century has lots to explore whilst Brougham Hall is a creative haven with crafts, a coffee shop and fascinating history.

Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Cream produces its own ice cream and is a great place to stop off for an ice cream!