Explore, Eat and Drink
Discover the best attractions and tourist sites near Ullswater and Penrith. Explore stunning lakes, historic castles, scenic trails, and local activities perfect for your Lake District adventure. And afterwards choose one of many nearby restaurants and pubs for dinner or a drink.
Places to visit
The North Lakes region, encompassing Ullswater, Penrith, and nearby areas, is rich in history and heritage. It boasts an array of stately homes and castles that offer a glimpse into the past. With working water mills, roman ruins, including Hadrian’s Wall, garden centres, art galleries and boat trips, there really is something for everyone. Here are our local recommendations.
Hutton in the Forest
Hutton-in-the-Forest is a spectacular place to visit, located on the northern edge of the Lake District in Cumbria. It is a treasure trove of architecture, art, and history. The house reflects a blend of styles, from medieval to Victorian, and is filled with fine furniture, tapestries, and paintings. The surrounding gardens include topiary, a walled garden, and a woodland walk.
Greystoke Castle
Greystoke Castle is open to the public for tours, cabaret evenings, functions, events, weddings, meeting spaces, product launches and corporate events. With a tea room & dungeon bar, and, in the near future, hotel rooms. The estate’s extensive grounds and centuries-old history make it a fascinating part of the region’s heritage, and then of course there’s the links to the legend of Tarzan.
Lowther Castle
A short drive from Penrith, Lowther Castle is a dramatic Gothic ruin set amidst 130 acres of beautifully restored gardens. Once home to the Earls of Lonsdale, the castle now features exhibitions detailing its history and a family-friendly “Lost Castle” adventure playground. The gardens combine wilderness and grandeur, with highlights like the Parterre and the Japanese Garden.
Carlisle Castle
Standing proud in the city it has dominated for nine centuries, Carlisle Castle remained a working fortress until well within living memory. It has withstood many sieges, held captive a royal prisoner, and been home to the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment.
Explore the medieval castle rooms, discover a turbulent history with the exhibition, and walk some of the castle walls. It is also home to Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life.
Dalemain Stately Home
Located near Ullswater in the Lake District, Dalemain is a charming Georgian mansion with medieval roots. The house is filled with period furnishings, portraits, and fascinating family collections.
The award-winning gardens feature a mix of formal and wild areas, including the unique Rose Walk and Knot Garden. Dalemain is also famous for hosting the World Marmalade Festival.
Acorn Bank
Acorn Bank, near Temple Sowerby in Cumbria, is a National Trust property renowned for its tranquil gardens, woodlands, and a restored 19th-century watermill. The watermill is a highlight of Acorn Bank, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about traditional milling techniques:
Acorn Bank is particularly famous for its extensive herb garden, boasting over 250 varieties of medicinal and culinary plants. Visitors can learn about the traditional uses of herbs and enjoy the aromatic surroundings.
Larch Cottage
Larch Cottage Nurseries is a unique and picturesque garden nursery located in Melkinthorpe in the Eden Valley. Known for its enchanting atmosphere, it offers a wide selection of rare and unusual plants, including perennials, climbers, shrubs, and trees. Established in 1984, it has become a destination for gardening enthusiasts and those seeking to enhance their gardens with distinctive plants.
The Pot Place
The Pot Place is located in Plumpton, near Penrith. It is a popular destination for garden enthusiasts and those looking for quality gardening products. It offers a wide range of items and services catering to gardening and outdoor living needs including an extensive selection of pots and general gardening supplies.
Upfront Gallery
Upfront Gallery and Puppet Theatre is a distinctive cultural and artistic venue located near Penrith. The venue hosts a delightful puppet theatre, an art gallery, cafe and gift shop as well as hosting live music and events
Aira Force
Aira Force is a stunning waterfall located in the Lake District National Park, near Ullswater. It is one of the most popular and picturesque natural attractions in the region, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature in a truly sensational setting.
Ullswater Steamers
This historic and popular attraction in the Lake District, offers scenic cruises on Ullswater, one of the region’s most beautiful lakes. It provides a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes and tranquil waters of this iconic destination.
Theatre By The Lake
Theatre by the Lake is a celebrated arts venue located in Keswick, on the shores of Derwentwater. Known for its stunning setting and high-quality productions, it offers a diverse program of theatrical performances and cultural events, making it a cultural hub in the region.
Eat & Drink
There’s a wide range of places to eat and drink near Penrith and Ullswater, and in the wider Lake District. Here are a few of our recommendations:
- The Sun Inn, Newton Reigny
- The Dog and Gun Inn, Skelton, which has a Michelin star
- The Boot and Shoe, Greystoke
- The Inn on the Lake, Glenridding
- Gianni’s Pizzeria Restaurant, Penrith
- Salsa Mexican Restaurant, Penrith
- Taste of Bengal, Penrith
- Grants Restaurant, Penrith
Golf
Base yourself at Woodhead farm and enjoy a fantastic golfing holiday. All of these golf courses are within a 10 to 30 minute drive.
- Penrith Golf Hub, Driving Range, 9 Hole Course, 18 Hole Adventure Golf also a 9 hole foot Course.
- Penrith Golf Club
- Keswick Golf Club
- Silloth On Solway Golf Club
- Stonyholme Golf Club, Carlisle
- Carlisle Golf Club
- Appleby Golf Club
- Alston Moor Golf Club – The stunning course is the highest in the UK at 1476 feet above sea level
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