Walking and Cycling in Penrith

Walking

A lovely walk from the centre of town leads up Fell Lane and then follows a wooded path to the summit of Beacon Hill. Beacon Pike or Tower was built in 1719 on the site where for centuries, fires have been lit to warn of impending danger. From the top, there are extensive views across Penrith to the Lake District fells, Solway Firth and the mountains of Scotland. There are also good views from Beacon Edge which leads to Cowraik Quarry, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) open to visitors.

Thacka Beck Nature Reserve provides homes for a wealth of wildlife and is a lovely walk for all the family.

Access for all Walk

The Rotary Club of Penrith have produced a leaflet with details of an "Access for all Walk" - a self guided tour of Penrith. The route has been chosen to make the walk accessible to all, including those with disabilities. To download a copy, please visit the Penrith Rotary Club website. 

Town Trails

Find out more about Penrith's history and heritage by picking up an "Access for All" Penrith Town Trails leaflet from Penrith Tourist Information Centre. Look out for eight blue information plaques on buildings throughout the town. The Millennium Trail is marked out by brass plaques in the pavement throughout the town at points of interest. 

The Hiking Household, in partnership with Active Cumbria, have produced six maps focused around popular parks and open spaces in Cumbria including one in Penrith. Visit the Active Cumbria website for more details of the Pategill, Penrith walk.

Cycling

Local Rides

The C2C (Sea to Sea) cycle route passes through Penrith.  The town has been designated Cumbria's first Cycling Hub which means that cyclists are made extra welcome and will find excellent facilities.  These include cycle hire, cyclist-friendly accommodation and specially designed routes starting from Penrith. 

A leaflet is available from Penrith Tourist Information Centre which describes five 'Do in a Day' cycle routes' from Penrith.

Penrith is the starting point for the Lakes and Dales Loop which will enable cyclists to explore areas on the edge of the Lake District National Park.