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Penrith lies in almost the middle of Cumbria, situated in the region known as the Lake District. Many local rivers border the town and the Thacka Beck, a manmade waterway running through town, once supplied the resident's water. Ancient civilizations followed by Roman and Norse occupations are all evident in the location as depicted by various archaeological sites. Penrith has been a market town since the early 1200's and has evolved into a major shopping area. Back in the day, inns and pubs were more than places to wine and dine, relax and enjoy conversation. Each building also served as a market for a specific agricultural commodity. As the town blossomed, individual market areas were designated.
Alleyways behind the inns were once used to stable horses and carts for the farmers who brought products to market. Over the years these spaces have been transformed into charming courtyards or shops. Today the streets are lined with specialty shops in addition to a farmer's market in the square. Devonshire Arcade once housed produce and meat shops, but today contains a variety of modern stores. Although modernised, visitors find the region is filled with myths and legends from the past.
Activities and Attractions
Journeying from one location to another is relatively easy, as the town is serviced by taxis, buses and railways, but walking and cycling are popular. Local history, along with archaeological and geological displays are found at the Penrith Museum on Middlegate. Unique exhibits include a prehistoric cup and ring discovered at the Neolithic Meg Stone Circle and pottery from a local ancient Roman fort. Off Main Street lays St. Andrew's Church. Though rebuilt in the 1700's, the site has held a place of worship since the early 1100's. The churchyard contains the giant's grave, the remains of a legendary Norse king, reportedly immense in stature. The grave is marked with crosses dating back to 920 AD.
Beacon Hill sits atop a fell and was used throughout history to warn the town of impending invasion. Residents were alerted to trouble by witnessing a lit fire in the tower. The tower's last known use was to warn of the invasion by Napoleon and his army during the early part of the 18th century. South of town lays Castle Park and the ruins of Penrith Castle. Built at the end of the 14th century, the structure originally contained a Pele tower and surrounding wall. The castle eventually evolved into a fortress as protection against invading Scots. Visitors gain access to the castle by traversing a wooded footbridge, which crosses one side of the surrounding moat. Also outside of Penrith sits Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle. Reportedly, the second largest Neolithic circle in the country, approximately 69 stones comprise the ring measuring 350 feet in diameter. The largest stone stands about 12 feet high and has curious carvings.
Places To Stay and Dining
There are dozens of hotels, bed and breakfasts, guesthouses and self-catering cottages in and around Penrith. Choose from fine English luxury to a charming country atmosphere, all containing modern amenities. Some are conveniently located within the heart of the town, while others are situated amongst acres of lush lawns, manicured gardens and forested areas.
There are no lack of eateries in Penrith with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars. Guests easily find everything from fish and chips or pizzerias to fine dining experiences. Menus include traditional English cuisine, Asian, European and Italian meals.
Accommodation in Penrith
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