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Penrith Eden Valley & North Pennines
Penrith Eden Valley & North Pennines

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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 (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.

Culture & Heritage

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.

Surrounding Areas

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.

Did you know?

THE GIANT’S GRAVE

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.

THE PLAGUE STONE

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.

CLIFTON MOOR

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.

PENRITH BEACON

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.

KING ARTHUR'S ROUND TABLE

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.

BROUGHAM CASTLE

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.

Highlights

Hillcroft Park - Camping

With two dedicated camping fields, camping at Hillcroft Park is a really lovely choice. Camping…

A Green Man for the Garden ~ with Mark Bradley

Spend a lovely Day with Mark creating a characterful 'Green Man for the Garden' in Stoneware. A…

The Queen's Head Askham

Welcome to The Queen's Head, a unique and delightful 17th-century village pub nestled in the heart…

1863 Restaurant with Rooms

Dinner at 1863 will no doubt generate conversation around the table on the night, but (we hope!)…

Chef's Dinner

Step into an intimate dinner, hosted by one of our talented brigade, as they create a 5 course…

Hutton-in-the-Forest Historic House

Historic house and gardens based on a medieval pele towers with substantial 17th, 18th and 19thC…

Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge

A fabulous traditional inn at the heart of the picturesque village of Pooley Bridge, next to Lake…

The Big Bike Film Night

Let the good times ROLL! The screening sensation known as The Big Bike Film Night is riding into…

Arragon's Cycle Hire - Delivery

Whether you're planning a car free stay, would like to explore the areas stunning scenery &…

Askham Fell

Great cycling activities for all the family in the Lake District and Cumbria. With mountains and…

Troutbeck Head - Universally Accessible Glamping Pods

Our Universally Accessible glamping pods and cabins are suitable for guests with and without…

Brougham Hall

Brougham Hall is a creative haven where you can enjoy the perfect blend of crafts, coffee and…

Lowther Castle & Gardens

A spectacular Gothic ruin set in 130 acres of ancient and romantic Gardens, award-winning Lowther…

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

Home to the Hasell family since 1679, visitors to Dalemain will discover a fascinating combination…

Cranstons Cumbrian Food Hall

The Cumbrian Food Hall offers Cranstons' famous butchery, deli, and local produce from over 100…

Lake District Gyroplanes

A spectacular gyrocopter trial flight and unique flying lesson. You have the thrill of taking…

St Ninian, Brougham

A lovely church in a remote setting. Known locally as Ninekirks, St Ninian's stands remote down a…

1863 Restaurant with Rooms

1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…

Allium at Askham Hall

A stunning grade 1 listed Pele Tower dating back to the 13th century, Askham Hall has been…

Chestnut House

Chestnut House is a specialist food and drink store which carries 400 + gins and a wide range of…

The Rheged Centre

Rheged is a gallery, café, cinema, shopping venue, workplace and creative space on the edge of the…

The Mews @ Roundthorn

Luxury one and two bedroom Mews apartments set in the grounds of the Roundthorn Country House,…

Waterfoot Park - Self Catering

Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the…

Garden Party Fundraiser

For the first time in 9 years, Myles and Jo Thompson are inviting the local community to their…

Eden Valley The most peaceful haven of pastoral calm

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Pooley Bridge Inn

Address

Pooley Bridge Inn, Finkle St, Ullswater, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2NN

Telephone
017684 86215

info@pooleybridgeinn.co.uk

Ullswater, Pooley Bridge

We have 12 comfy en-suite rooms, some with private balconies. Enjoy a full English or continental breakfast. With family and adjoining rooms, we welcome everyone—from solo travellers to larger groups.

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Gin Making Workshops at Black Cat Distillery

Address

Black Cat Distillery, Brougham Hall, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DE

Telephone
07854 944597

info@blackcatdistillery.co.uk

Penrith

Open our doors and embark on a journey into the world of craft distilling by booking on to one of our gin making workshops with us. A warm Cumbrian welcome awaits as we embark on your distilling adventure.

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The Queen's Head Askham

Address

The Queen’s Head Askham, Askham, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2PF

queenshead@askhamhall.co.uk

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…

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36 reviews
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North Lakes Hotel & Spa

Address

Ullswater Road, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 8QT

Telephone
01768 868111

reservations@northlakeshotel.co.uk

Penrith

Take a warm Cumbrian welcome, a team of people who love to look after you and fantastic facilities, a perfect combination at any time of the year. Public areas are spacious with log fires and deep, comfy sofas throughout.

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Arragon's Cycle Hire at Lowther Castle

Address

Arragons Cycle Hire, Lowther Castle, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2HH

Telephone
07745190227

arragonscycles@mac.com

Penrith

We are delighted to announce that we are now offering Cycle Hire from the beautiful surroundings of Lowther Castle. The venture coincides with the launch on the Lowther Estate of a network of dedicated cycling and walking trails. This will enable…

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Café Oswald's

Address

Cranstons Cumbrian Foodhall & Café Oswald’s, Ullswater Rd, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7EH

Telephone
01768 862 113

enquiries@cranstons.net

Penrith

Café Oswald's offers dishes made from Cranstons' meat and local ingredients, along with a selection of hot drinks and delicious baked in-house cakes.

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FYR Restaurant at North Lakes Hotel

Address

Ullswater Road, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 8QT

Telephone
01768 868111

reservations@northlakeshotel.co.uk

Penrith

Featuring an eye-catching bespoke open fire grill and a brand new menu to choose from, let our talented chefs delight you with juicy steaks, succulent burgers and signature FYR kebabs, all cooked on the open flames.

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Penrith Tourist Information Centre

Address

Robinson's School, Middlegate, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7PT

Telephone
01768 867466

pen.tic@eden.gov.uk

Penrith

Gateway Tourist Information Centre providing an extensive range of information and services.

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North View Bed & Breakfast

Address

North View Adventure Ltd, 43 Wordsworth St, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7QY

Telephone
07375 351222

stay@northviewbnb.co.uk

Penrith

Discover North View B&B in Penrith, offering French elegance, homemade breakfasts, and stunning Lake District views. Multilingual hospitality ensures a warm stay!

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George and Dragon, Clifton - Food & Drink

Address

Clifton, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2ER

Telephone
01768 865381

enquiries@georgeanddragonclifton.co.uk

Penrith

At the George and Dragon, our commitment to exceptional food has garnered us numerous awards throughout the years. We attribute our success to our field-to-fork philosophy, where we prioritize home-grown ingredients and showcase the culinary…

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1075 reviews
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Rheged

Address

Redhills, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0DQ

Telephone
01768 868000

enquiries@rheged.com

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.

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The Barn

Address

The Barn, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2NN

Telephone
017684 86444

Lowthermm@hotmail.com

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!

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Gins from Black Cat Distillery

Address

Black Cat Distillery, Brougham Hall, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DE

Telephone
07854 944597

info@blackcatdistillery.co.uk

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…

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Troutbeck Head - Universally Accessible Glamping Pods

Address

Troutbeck Head Experience Freedom Glamping, Troutbeck, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0SS

Telephone
01342 777533

enquiries@experiencefreedom.co.uk

Penrith

Our Universally Accessible glamping pods and cabins are suitable for guests with and without disabilities. All our Universally Accessible units are wheelchair accessible and include features such as level entry, wide doors and at least 1.5m turning…

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Waterfoot Park - S-Pods

Address

Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JF

Telephone
017684 86302

bookings@waterfootpark.co.uk

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…

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605 reviews
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Aqua Sana Forest Spa

Address

Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, Whinfell, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DW

Telephone
03448 266205

Penrith

Unique, immersive spa on the edge of the Lake District with 14 nature‑inspired thermal experiences and indulgent treatments in a serene forest setting.

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Center Parcs Whinfell Forest

Address

Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, Whinfell Forest, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DW

Telephone
01768 893 009

Penrith

Discover picturesque landscapes at Whinfell Forest, a wildlife sanctuary nestled on the edge of the Lake District. Experience a range of activities, restaurants and traditional accommodation, all set around a beautiful lake.

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Roundthorn Country House

Address

Roundthorn Country House, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 8SJ

Telephone
01768 863952

info@roundthorn.co.uk

Penrith

The Roundthorn is a Grade II listed Georgian mansion is set in its own landscaped grounds and enjoys panoramic views of the Eden Valley, the Pennines and Lakeland Fells.

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The Toffee Shop Limited

Address

The Toffee Shop, 7 Brunswick Rd, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7LU

Telephone
01768862008

sales@thetoffeeshop.co.uk

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!

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Fellrunner Buses

Address

Eden Valley, Cumbria

Telephone
01768 88232

website@cumbriatourism.org

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.

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Penrith

Culture & Heritage

Surrounding Areas

Did you know?

THE GIANT’S GRAVE

THE PLAGUE STONE

CLIFTON MOOR

PENRITH BEACON

KING ARTHUR'S ROUND TABLE

BROUGHAM CASTLE

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