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Appleby Horse Fair
An annual gathering of Gypsies and Travellers in Appleby in the form of a traditional fair where horses are washed, trotted and sold.
Free entryWritten by Katie Hale
Cumbria
Acorn Bank
National Trust property seven miles outside Penrith with ornate gardens and woodland walks that offer views across the Eden Valley.
Potfest in the Park
Elaborate vases, intricate centrepieces, and ceramics – Potfest in the Park celebrates the creative possibilities of clay.
Free entry
Cumbria
Penrith Castle
Ruins of a 14th century castle, former home of Richard III. Situated in Penrith’s Castle Park, and managed by English Heritage. Free to visit.
Cumbria
Rheged Centre
A visitor centre off the A66, containing gallery spaces, cinema screen, artisan shopping and local produce, as well as cafes and children’s play areas.
Cumbria
Penrith Town Centre
A blend of historic and contemporary gives Penrith its edge, ancient tradition sitting side-by-side with trendy wine bars, hipster cafes and fine dining.
Cumbria
Lowther Castle and Gardens
Sitting proud amid lush green parkland just inside the Lake District National Park, Lowther Castle is like a fairytale illustration of a castle.
Eden Valley
Appleby Castle
Ever fancied sleeping in a 16th century four-poster bed, in a bona fide castle? Get a taste of Elizabethan aristocracy at Appleby Castle.
Cumbria
Brougham Hall
A historic site and restoration project with an eclectic range of shops, studios and a gallery space, run by local artisans and craftspeople.
Cumbria
Hutton-in-the-Forest
A few miles north of Penrith, Hutton-in-the-Forest is an exquisite country house, described by Simon Jenkins as “one of Britain’s top 100”.
Things to do in Penrith and the Surrounding Area
With the picturesque Lake District to the west and the sweeping ridge of the Pennines to the east, Penrith is a stunning cultural destination.