Penrith Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Penrith
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Penrith, the vibrant gateway to the Lake District, where your family can discover the charm of historic streets and the beauty of rolling green hills. Wander together through the bustling town centre, exploring Penrith Castle and the bustling market square, where local treats and handmade crafts invite curiosity. With its friendly cafés and welcoming atmosphere, Penrith makes every family feel at home, offering plenty of space for little ones to run and play while you soak in the region’s relaxed pace.
Just a short drive from Penrith, you’ll find the shimmering waters of Ullswater Lake, perfect for a family paddleboarding session or scenic steamer cruise. The gentle lakeside trails are ideal for cycling or strolling, with picnic spots framed by wildflowers and mountain views. For adventurous families, nearby Helvellyn offers gentle walking routes suitable for older children, while Lowther Castle’s adventure playground promises hours of fun for younger explorers.
Throughout the seasons, Penrith and the Lake District region offer memorable experiences for every family. Spring brings lambs to the fields and daffodils along the paths, while autumn paints the hills in gold and red. Whether you’re enjoying a summer ice cream by the lake or a cozy winter evening in a local inn, Penrith welcomes your family to create lasting memories in the heart of the Lake District.
Nearby cities
Bretherdale
Discover Bretherdale in the Lake District—where your family can picnic by sparkling lakes, hike green hills, and share laughter in peaceful, scenic parks.
Carlisle
Discover Carlisle in North West UK—where your family can picnic by peaceful rivers, explore ancient castles, and bike scenic trails under wide open skies.
Grasmere
Discover Grasmere in the Lake District—where your family can picnic by sparkling lakes, hike green hills, and savor homemade treats in cozy village cafés.
Braithwaite
Bring your family to Braithwaite in the Lake District for peaceful lake mornings, woodland walks, and bike rides—perfect for kids and parents to explore together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Penrith has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Families visiting Penrith, United Kingdom, will find the Lake District National Park just a stone’s throw away, offering exhilarating hikes up Helvellyn and scenic boat trips on Ullswater. Children will love exploring the ancient ruins of Penrith Castle and venturing through the enchanting woods of Whinlatter Forest, where cycling trails and wildlife encounters abound. The Eden Valley Railway provides a charming steam train ride, while Lowther Castle’s adventure playground promises hours of imaginative outdoor fun.
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Exploring Penrith is much easier with the Opal card, which offers discounted fares for families on trains, buses, and ferries across Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Families can take advantage of the Opal Weekly Travel Reward, which gives free travel after a certain number of journeys in a week, making trips to attractions like the Museum of Fire or Penrith Whitewater Stadium more affordable. The Opal card also provides capped daily fares, helping families manage transport costs while visiting local highlights.
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In Penrith, families can expect average nightly rates for accommodations to range from £80 to £150, depending on the season and the type of property. Many visitors choose to stay at charming guesthouses or family-friendly hotels like the North Lakes Hotel & Spa, where amenities include indoor pools and easy access to the Lake District National Park. For a more immersive experience, some families opt for self-catering cottages close to Ullswater or Whinfell Forest, offering comfort and convenience.
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A relaxing 5-day family vacation in Penrith means exploring the stunning Lake District National Park, where you can enjoy leisurely boat rides on Ullswater and scenic walks along the shores of Derwentwater. Families often visit the historic Penrith Castle and stroll through the charming town center, stopping for delicious Cumbrian treats at local cafes. Whinlatter Forest offers adventure with treetop trails, while days end with cozy evenings in a traditional Lakeland cottage surrounded by rolling hills.
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Absolutely, families visiting Penrith can enjoy a fantastic day at the Penrith Lakes, particularly at the Penrith Lakes Regional Park. This area features sandy stretches along the lakeshore, perfect for kids to paddle and play, and is complemented by shaded picnic areas and well-maintained playgrounds. The park’s tranquil water views and open grassy spaces make it an ideal spot for a relaxing family picnic or an afternoon of outdoor fun, all within a short drive from the town center.
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The closest ski resort to Penrith is Perisher, located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. It’s about a five-hour drive from Penrith, making it a popular winter destination for locals seeking fresh powder and alpine adventure. Perisher offers extensive ski runs, modern lifts, and a lively village atmosphere, with opportunities for snowboarding, tobogganing, and après-ski dining. The scenic drive takes you through the stunning Kosciuszko National Park, adding to the experience.
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In Penrith, you can expect to spend around £4 to £8 per day on local buses, which connect key attractions like the Penrith Castle, Rheged Centre, and Ullswater. Taxis are available but more expensive, with short trips averaging £6 to £10. If you plan to explore the Lake District National Park by train, fares from Penrith North Lakes station to nearby towns typically range from £5 to £15, depending on your destination and time of travel.
