Hotels in Penrith

Penrith Introduction

Just a short distance from the rolling green hills of the Lake District National Park, the market town of Penrith has a cosy British charm. Surrounded by ancient ruins and Roman architecture, Penrith is at the centre of the heavenly-named Eden Valley, where steam trains roll through the unspoilt countryside. Its lively town centre is famed for having a large concentration of traditional, welcoming pubs, as well as chintz-clad tearooms that are sure to give you a dose of nostalgia.

Hotels in Penrith

Those seeking a country escape will love the grand country house hotels on the outskirts of Penrith. With features such as open fireplaces in their lobbies, cosy on-site restaurants and rooms with exposed beams and lots of character, these Penrith hotels are ideal for a romantic break. Families will appreciate the warm welcome on offer in the local inns. Offering 2 or 3-star accommodation, these family-friendly pubs offer mid-price rooms with extras such as free WiFi, and the rate usually includes a hearty breakfast to get you ready for long country walks.

Where to stay

Penrith has a quintessentially English town centre, with cobbled streets, market squares, and bunting fluttering overhead. From red phone boxes to red-bricked Victorian architecture, the town has a throwback feel, and staying in hotels in Penrith close to the centre means you can take a stroll around the quirky independent shops. For a traditional village vibe, stay in Pooley Bridge, which is full of stone-clad pubs and is surrounded by the lush green hills of the Lake District National Park. After a brisk walk, wander into one of the charmingly rustic tearooms for a steaming cup of tea paired with a dense scone smeared in traditional strawberry jam.

Things to see

Sitting at the Eastern edge of the Lake District National Park, Penrith is well-placed to explore Ullswater, the 2nd largest lake in the area. The placid blue of the lake is contrasted by the lavish green hills and the craggy summit of Place Fell. With a well-worn path surrounded by bracken-covered rocks and thick ferns, the steep walk to Place Fell isn't as intimidating as it looks, with the shortest route to the summit just 2 miles in length. If you're a fan of mystical tales, visit the bronze age stone circle known as Long Meg and her Daughters. Said to date back to 1500 BC, there's a serene, slightly spooky atmosphere as you wander around these mysterious relics. As you approach the imposing ruins of Lowther Castle, it's easy to imagine what this grand estate with its turrets and arch windows must have looked. Once boasting a room for every day of the year, this 19th-century castle is now just a shell, but boasts 130 acres of woodland and abandoned gardens to explore.

How to get to Penrith

Penrith North Lakes railway station is a handy entry point to the town, just a mile away from the town centre. The Virgin service from London Euston to Glasgow Central stops off here, as well as the TransPennine Express that runs from Manchester to Glasgow or Edinburgh. Manchester Airport is also connected to Penrith by train, and is a busy hub with flights arriving from around the world. From the train station, you can walk to the town or get a cab, while some Penrith hotel deals include a shuttle service.