Penrith Travel Guide - Expert Recommendations & Advice

I write for Coast Magazine, Daily .... Read more

Why go to Penrith?

Last updated 13 March 2011

For a real Cumbrian market town.

Local shops for local people

‘Old Red Town’ is the hub for visiting the northeastern Lakes and located just off junction 40 of the M6. It’s a more workaday affair than the other places listed with traditional shops, cobbled streets and a ruined castle.

The Dark Lake

Rather than a place to stay per se, Penrith is a good place to stock up on supplies and visit the excellent tourist information centre before exploring the country roads around Ullswater, Cumbria’s second largest lake.

This northeastern part of the Lakes feels much quieter and less commercial than the central region. It’s an area known for its mythology and natural beauty, while a clutch of stand-out places to stay are dotted round the wider area – see my Penrith hotels page for more details.

The community guide Ullswater - a whole new world has more details.