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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

Eycott Hill Nature Reserve

Eycott Hill is a great place to take a short walk with amazing views across Lake District fells.…

Rheged Café

Our 100-seat ground-floor café is a relaxed dining space where you can brunch with friends, enjoy a…

Troutbeck Head - Universally Accessible Glamping Pods

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

Spring Foraging event at Hutton-in-the-Forest

Hutton-in-the-Forest is a beautiful historic house and garden, situated on the northern edge of the…

Arragon's Cycle Centre

Arragons Cycle Centre is run by Phil & Sarah with the help of a dedicated team of Sales Staff and…

Lakeland 100 Recce Day

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

Roundthorn Country House

The Roundthorn is a Grade II listed Georgian mansion is set in its own landscaped grounds and…

North Lakes Hotel & Spa

Take a warm Cumbrian welcome, a team of people who love to look after you and fantastic facilities,…

Spring Foraging event at Dalemain Mansion

The varied habitats of the Dalemain Estate parklands and gardens area provide a rich, year-round…

Lowther Castle & Gardens

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

An Evening of Tina Turner

An Evening of Tina Turner £45per person Dance the night away with music performed by the…

Center Parcs Whinfell Forest

Discover picturesque landscapes at Whinfell Forest, a wildlife sanctuary nestled on the edge of the…

Waterfoot Park - S-Pods

Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…

George and Dragon, Clifton

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

St. Andrew's Church, Dacre

A beautiful Norman church on site of 7th century monastery in peaceful Lakeland location and home…

Greystoke and back

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

Pooley Bridge Inn - Food & Drink

The Pooley Bridge Inn offers hearty home-cooked food, vegan and gluten-free options, local seasonal…

Rheged

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

Madonna Tribute Night

Madonna Tribute Night £45per person Celebrate the queen of pop with music performed by the…

Black Cat Distillery

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

1863 Restaurant with Rooms

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

Orchard Hideaways

Orchard Hideaways is a cosy Camping Pod site nestled in the serene Eden Valley, just moments away…

Ullswater's North Western Fells

The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…

Hillcroft Park - Touring

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

Eden Valley The most peaceful haven of pastoral calm

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Towns & Villages

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Askham Fell

Address

Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7PT

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cumbria

Great cycling activities for all the family in the Lake District and Cumbria. With mountains and valleys, miles of mature forest, endless lake and coastal shores, the landscape of Cumbria makes an amazing place to go cycling.

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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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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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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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247 reviews
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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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Hillcroft Park - Lodges

Address

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

Telephone
017684 86363

info@hillcroftpark.co.uk

Pooley Bridge

A range of luxury lodges, many sleeping 4 people, some pet-friendly, suitable for families or with private hot tubs, the choice is yours. Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning locations of any…

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450 reviews
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Allium at Askham Hall

Address

Askham Hall, Askham, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2PF

Telephone
01931712350

enquiries@askhamhall.co.uk

Penrith

A stunning grade 1 listed Pele Tower dating back to the 13th century, Askham Hall has been transformed from a stately family abode into a unique and contemporary stylish retreat and restaurant. A luxurious, intimate, unpretentious home from home…

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161 reviews
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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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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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450 reviews
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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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Orchard Hideaways

Address

Orchard Hideaways, Redhills Lane, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0DT

Telephone
07483308007

info@orchard-hideaways.co.uk

Penrith

Orchard Hideaways is a cosy Camping Pod site nestled in the serene Eden Valley, just moments away from picturesque Ullswater in the Lake District. Perfect for adventurers, families, and furry friends alike, our site offers exclusive hire options for…

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101 reviews
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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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1076 reviews
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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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Near Howe Cottages

Address

Near Howe, Mungrisdale, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0SH

Telephone
01768 779678

enquiries@nearhowe.co.uk

Penrith

A perfect location to explore the Lake District, there are seven dog-friendly, high-quality, tastefully decorated, family-friendly self-catering cottages. Located in the heart of the Cumbrian countryside, Near Howe is an idyllic, quiet, and tranquil…

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287 reviews
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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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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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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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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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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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1863 Restaurant with Rooms

Address

High Street, Pooley Bridge, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA10 2NH

Telephone
017684 86334

info@1863ullswater.co.uk

Ullswater

1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family affair who enjoy getting the little things just right, welcoming guests back times and again to share in a slice of Lake District paradise.

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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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