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Penrith is the gateway to the northern parts of the Lake District and is a historic town and one of the oldest. The town is also close to the Eden Valley which follows the chain of the Pennines to the Solway-Firth, which makes this quite a popular area for both the Lakes and Eden Valley.

Within Penrith you will discover a busy town with its narrow streets on its perimeter and open areas like Great Dockray, which is a large market place.

Going back to the 9th & 10th Centuries, Penrith was the capital of Cumbria. On the outskirts of the town you will find Penrith Castle which was involved in many battles with the Scots and the English. The castle was built at the end of the 14th Century and its ruins can be seen at Castle Park and is owned by the English Heritage.

At the northern end of Penrith is Beacon Hill which makes an excellent viewing point. In days gone by, a beacon was lit here to warn of impending raids on the town.

St. Andrew's Church which was rebuilt in the 18th Century, within the graveyard is said to be the burial place of Owen Caesarius, King of Cumbria and is marked by two 11ft crosses and four hogback tombstones. It is also said that they are a collection of medieval memorials and not graves.

Penrith is also linked with William and Dorothy Wordsworth where they stayed in Devonshire Street with their grandparents while they attended the school of Dame Birkett.

You will find a number of attractions to visit and interesting things to do like Wetheriggs Pottery of Pots of Fun Studio where you can have a go at throwing the clay, or visit the Rheged The Upland Kingdom Discovery Centre. Close by is Ullswater Lake where you can take a trip on the Ullswater Steamers.

Clicking on the various Level Maps below will show different map views of Penrith and District. Maps Courtesy of Multi Map.
County Level Map
Town Level Map
Street Level Map