Location

Visiting Penrith

When you stand on the lawn outside Lonsdale Villa Retreat and look out over the Penrith rooftops to the mountains and rolling hills beyond, you get a feeling of living history. Historical doesn’t mean out of touch though. While Penrith still retains it’s the charm of its heritage, it is also home to all you would expect from a modern town.

An ideal location for business trips and leisure.

The location of Penrith has been key to its development, and it has thrived throughout history as both part of the main trade route across the Pennines and as a stopping point for travellers to and from Scotland. The town still bustles with visitors. Some are here for commercial reason or taking part in business retreat activities, some just come to enjoying the scenery or visit the shops and markets. Unlike some towns, it is also still the main shopping and commercial centre for the local population.

We are just a short hop from the motorway and the rail link brings you right to the centre of the town. No wonder then that it is known as the Gateway to the North Lakes. When you stay at Londsale Villa Retreat, you really should take the time to walk into town and explore and experience everything Penrith has to offer. From traditional family shops to art galleries, local pubs to incredible restaurants. After a long day with family, out of workplace training event, or developing your creative muscles, a walk into the town takes less than 10 minutes and you will be rewarded with something for everyone… and maybe even a pint of our local beers.

Culture and History

There has been a settlement in the Penrith area since long before recorded history. Indications of ancient circular earthen work fortifications (known locally as King Arthur’s round table) can still be seen at nearby Eamont Bridge and the monolith at Mayburgh henge dates to pre-historic times.

When you wander down the hill into the town you will find streets and byways that are steeped in history. The remains of the 14th castle still proudly watches over us and you can still see many traditional buildings constructed from Penrith Sandstone. Much of the town retains its mediaeval layout and the narrow roads, originally part of the defence against raids from the North, are perfect for a leisurely wander. In the 19th century, Penrith became a fashionable holiday spot for those looking to enjoy the North Lakes. Tourism remains an important industry for the local area but Penrith is unspoiled and a living town that his home to the 15,000 or so residents. It is a jewel in the Cumbrian landscape and there is nowhere quite like it. The town is an eclectic mix of visitors ranging from groups of businesspeople, here to work on developing a new approach to their businesses, to walkers tramping the byways of nature. Penrith is inimitable, charming, distinctive, welcoming, and as individual and unique as the north lakes themselves.