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Market Town to Mere - Penrith to Ullswater

Just off the West Coast Mainline, in the Eden Valley, nestles the very Cumbrian Market town of Penrith. Pair a stay here with a trip to the Ullswater Valley, where the mountains dip their toes into the lake, for a World Heritage Signature Experience.

Day 1

Morning

Hop on the train and head to Penrith Station. There are regular direct trains here from London to Glasgow/Edinburgh, calling at Crewe, Warrington, Wigan, Preston and Lancaster, plus easy connections from Manchester and Birmingham. From the Station the short walk into Penrith is clearly waymarked. Don’t forget to have a quick look at Penrith Castle en-route. Richard, Duke of Gloucester was given the Lordship of Penrith by his brother, Edward IV, and spent much time at Penrith Castle, adding a large banqueting hall, kitchens and other buildings.

Afternoon

Browse the range of quirky shops hiding down the town’s historical ginnels and alleys. During 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 the town was seized by Edward I of England, and for the next 15 years, Penrith was subject to numerous border skirmishes between the Scots and the English. The castle and the narrow streets and passageways evident in the town today were deliberately built as defences against border raids.

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.

If you are feeling adventurous head to the bus station (stand 3) to get the regular X5 bus to Rheged Discovery Centre.

Evening

The North Lakes Hotel and Spa offers luxury within walking distance of the town centre.

Day 2

Morning

From the Bus Station on Sandgate, just off the town centre, take the 508 bus from Stand 1 for the 40 minute ride to the Greenside Road Bus Shelter in Glenridding. If you aren’t sure where to get off just ask the driver to give you a shout when you are there. Spend the morning browsing the collection of shops, admiring the views and enjoying a brew in one of the local cafes or pubs.

Afternoon

From Glenridding walk down to Glenridding Pier, clearly signposted from the main road. From the pier you can cruise on one of the Ullswater Steamers to Aira Force Pier.

Escape the ordinary at Aira Force. Let your imagination run wild as you weave your way through woodland glades from the waters edge to fell top. You'll find champion trees, cheeky red squirrels, waterfalls, perfect picnic spots, a café, pebble beaches, beautiful views and much more.

Evening

 Retrace your steps and catch the bus back to Penrith. Stay another night exploring the eateries of this charming town or catch the train home.