Staying in Penrith
Despite now being in ruins, Penrith Castle still makes an extremely impressive sight. Dating back to 1399, it became a royal fortress for Richard, Duke of Gloucester during the 1400’s. It was the Normans who built Brougham Castle, and a substantial remains can be seen today.
If you want o find out more about the locality, the Penrith Museum and Tourist Information Centre can be found in the former Robinson's School. This building dates back to Elizabethan times, and was originally altered in 1670 for use as a school. It remained so for 300 years until the early 1970's. The museum, which was only recently refurbished, provides excellent information on the history, archaeology and geology in the Penrith area.
Beacon Hill, which is high above the town, sees the famous Penrith Beacon monument, which was built on the sport where beacons have been during difficult times in the region since the rule of Henry VIII. There are terrific views from the top across the Eden Valley and Lakelands.