The best walks and hikes around Penrith

Tracing history in Penrith

It’s not just that some of the best hiking trails in Penrith take in exceptional historic sites, rather, it’s quite hard to avoid them. The town and its immediate surroundings are littered with archaeological evidence of Neolithic settlement, several sites of which you can see for yourself. Head south from the centre to cross the River Eamont and discover the Mayburgh Henge, today seen as a circular bank with a standing stone in its centre. Just a stone’s throw to the southeast lies King Arthur’s Table, another Neolithic henge of a similar design. 

Just across the River Lowther from the henges sits Brougham Hall, a stunning 15th-century castle-like house with beautiful and well preserved walls. It’s run as a charity and is open to the public. The history hikes in Penrith have barely got started. At the confluence of the Eamont and Lowther in the southeast of the town sits Brougham Castle, an exquisite 13th-century structure that remains in excellent condition.

Of course, in the south of the town centre lies Penrith Castle, a vast 14th-century fortification that stands today as a beautiful ruin. For more recent history, the 19th-century clocktower stands in the town centre’s historic Market Square. 

From riverbanks to beacon views

There are fantastic walks from Penrith that offer you a sweeping panorama of the town and its rather lovely location. Bordering its northern extent, Beacon Hill rises, cloaked in woodland and promising vibrant adventures among its trees. Numerous trails criss-cross the forest but make sure you don’t leave without reaching the Beacon itself, an 18th-century tower to commemorate the countless warning beacons lit here over the centuries. From the tower, you can enjoy glorious views across to Lakeland's Eastern Fells and Blencathra's distinctive saddleback form, as well as across the Eden Valley. 

If you like river walks then Penrith won’t let you down. It’s bordered to the south by the River Eamont which has several footpaths along various nearby meanders and there are numerous trails following the River Lowther’s course upstream. Both rivers lead you through peaceful woodlands and farmland littered with history.