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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

The Barn

The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…

Moor Divock and Askham Fell

Just east of Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater the moorland and low hills of Moor…

Hillcroft Park - Touring

Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most…

Fellrunner Buses

The Fellrunner Buses are operated and driven by local volunteers for the benefit of the community…

Paul Kelly & Band

A charity night dance with Irish and Country music with Paul Kelly and Band

Edge of Lakeland

Cycle your way steadily westwards, marvelling at the increasingly dramatic views of high Lakeland…

Lakeland 100 Recce Day

Recce run for the 2026 Lakeland 50 & 100 from Pooley Bridge to Ambleside. This run is only open for…

Melmerby Hall

Melmerby Hall sleeps 18 guests in 9 ensuite bedrooms. An English country manor house, it boasts…

Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge

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

"Gardening for the Terrified" Short course with Shelagh Todd

9.30am to 12.30am or 1.30pm to 4.30pm £40 inc. fresh coffee/ home made biscuits inc …

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

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

Pooley Bridge Inn

We have 12 comfy en-suite rooms, some with private balconies. Enjoy a full English or continental…

Waterfoot Park - Holiday Homes For Sale

Own your very own Lakeland retreat! If you've fallen in love with the Lakes and are looking to stay…

FYR Restaurant at North Lakes Hotel

Featuring an eye-catching bespoke open fire grill and a brand new menu to choose from, let our…

The Queen's Head Askham - Food & Drink

Opened in April 2019, The Queen’s Head Askham is a village pub with a difference just a two minute…

Creative Collagraph Printmaking 2 day Workshop ~ with Jenny McCabe

Creative Collagraph Printmaking 2 day Workshop ~ with Jenny McCabe 'Creative Collagraph…

Black Cat Distillery

Black Cat Distillery operates out of a stunning fortified and walled Medieval Hall at Brougham. Our…

St. Andrew's Church, Penrith

According to architectural historian Nicholas Pevsner, this is ‘the stateliest church of its time…

Greystoke and back

Our shortest route has no huge hills to tackle, but the lofty northern fells are an ever-present…

George and Dragon, Clifton

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Lake District, the George and Dragon is a beloved country…

Rheged

A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where…

Hillcroft Park - Self Catering

A choice of self-catering accommodation, owned and operated by the Heath Family. The award-winning…

Hutton-in-the-Forest Historic House

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

Skelton Show

130th Anniversary Skelton Show will be a great family day out in a picturesque location. The show…

Eden Valley The most peaceful haven of pastoral calm

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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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Tourism For All

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Moor Divock and Askham Fell

Address

Pooley Bridge, Cumbria

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cumbria

Just east of Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater the moorland and low hills of Moor Divock and Askham Fell is criss-crossed by an extensive network of bridleways. For mountain bikes, the bridleways are a good introduction to real…

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Hillcroft Park - Touring

Address

Hillcroft Park, Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2LT

Telephone
017684 86363

info@hillcroftpark.co.uk

Pooley Bridge

Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning locations of any UK holiday park.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
450 reviews
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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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Edge of Lakeland

Address

Penrith, CA11 7TP

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cycle your way steadily westwards, marvelling at the increasingly dramatic views of high Lakeland fells which rise up steeply behind the villages of Mosedale and Mungrisdale.

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Melmerby Hall

Address

Melmerby, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 1HB

Telephone
07968 258234

info@therowleyestate.com

Penrith

Melmerby Hall sleeps 18 guests in 9 ensuite bedrooms. An English country manor house, it boasts unbeatable relaxing and entertaining space. Breakfast in the orangery, BBQ overlooking fabulous gardens and woodland and cook in the 4 oven Aga.

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Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge

Address

Crown Inn Pooley Bridge, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2NP

Telephone
01768 425869

Relax@Crowninnpooleybridge.co.uk

Pooley Bridge

A fabulous traditional inn at the heart of the picturesque village of Pooley Bridge, next to Lake Ullswater. Home-cooked food and cask ales served in the cosy bar or outdoors on the large sun terrace overlooking the river.

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Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

Address

Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HB

Telephone
017684 86450

houseopening@dalemain.com

Penrith

Home to the Hasell family since 1679, visitors to Dalemain will discover a fascinating combination of history, architecture and family which is both a Cumbrian and national story. Dalemain is an award-winning delight and is part of the UNESCO World…

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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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Waterfoot Park - Holiday Homes For Sale

Address

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

Telephone
017684 86302

info@waterfootpark.co.uk

Ullswater, Penrith

Own your very own Lakeland retreat! If you've fallen in love with the Lakes and are looking to stay a little while longer, why not consider purchasing your own private holiday home? At Waterfoot Park, we have a range of lodges available, all of…

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591 reviews
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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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The Queen's Head Askham - Food & Drink

Address

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

Telephone
01931 712 225

thequeenshead@askhamhall.co.uk

Penrith

Opened in April 2019, The Queen’s Head Askham is a village pub with a difference just a two minute walk from Askham Hall. Part of the esteemed Askham Collection, The Queen’s Head is a cosy 17th century village pub with bedrooms ideally located in…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
33 reviews
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Black Cat Distillery

Address

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

Telephone
07854 944597

info@blackcatdistillery.co.uk

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.

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St. Andrew's Church, Penrith

Address

St. Andrews Place, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA11 7XX

Telephone
01768 862867

penrithparishoffice@gmail.com

PENRITH

According to architectural historian Nicholas Pevsner, this is ‘the stateliest church of its time in the county’, rebuilt in 1720 on an ancient site

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Greystoke and back

Address

Penrith, CA11 7TP

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

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.

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George and Dragon, Clifton

Address

George and Dragon, Clifton, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2ER

Telephone
01768 865381

enquiries@georgeanddragonclifton.co.uk

Penrith

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Lake District, the George and Dragon is a beloved country inn that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Sink into our fabulous beds adorned with luxurious linens, and enjoy the convenience of en-suite…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
251 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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Hillcroft Park - Self Catering

Address

Hillcroft Park, Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2LT

Telephone
017684 86363

info@hillcroftpark.co.uk

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.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
450 reviews
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Hutton-in-the-Forest Historic House

Address

Hutton in the Forest, Hutton-in-the-Forest, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 9TH

Telephone
017684 84449

info@hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk

Penrith

Historic house and gardens based on a medieval pele towers with substantial 17th, 18th and 19thC additions. Extensive gardens in woodland setting walled garden, topiary, woodland walk and lake with cascade.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
247 reviews
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Troutbeck Head - Glamping Pods

Address

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

Telephone
01342 777533

enquiries@experiencefreedom.co.uk

Penrith

Our cosy glamping pods provide a comfortable and contemporary glamping experience.

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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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