Premier Inn Penrith

Yes, Penrith is definitely worth a visit. It’s a historic market town with a great location on the edge of the Lake District and close to the Eden Valley, making it ideal for exploring some of the best landscapes in Cumbria. The town itself has plenty of character, with interesting ruins, independent shops, local food spots, and easy access to lakes, castles and walking trails. 

Penrith isn’t technically inside the Lake District National Park, but it sits right on the edge of it. In fact, it’s one of the main gateways to the Lakes, especially the Ullswater area, which is just a short drive away. So, while it’s not within the park boundary, it’s very much connected to the Lake District experience and makes a great base if you want to explore both the Lakes and the quieter countryside of the Eden Valley.

Penrith is best known for its historic castle ruins, its role as a traditional market town and being a key stop on the route to the Lake District. It’s also famous for The Toffee Shop, a tiny spot that’s been making handmade fudge and toffee for decades and has a bit of a legendary status. 

Penrith is a medium-sized town – bigger than a village but smaller than a city. It has a busy feel in the town centre, especially on market days, but still easy to get around on foot. There are all the essentials you’d expect, including supermarkets, cafes, pubs and a mix of independent shops. It’s large enough to keep you entertained but not so big that it feels overwhelming.