Countess Pillar

A66, Penrith

The Countess Pillar is a monument erected in 1656 by Lady Anne Clifford of nearby Brougham Castle. It is situated between Penrith and Appleby, two miles east of Penrith on the A66.

The Countess Pillar marks the place where Lady Anne said goodbye to her mother for the last time.

On the low stone beside it, money was given to the poor on each anniversary of her parting. Nearby is the Dolestone, where alms were distributed annually by Lady Anne. The Countess Pillar is in the care of English Heritage.