Penrith is at the heart of Eastern Cumbria, situated in The Eden Valley, it is the gateway to the North Lakes. Penrith is a popular and picturesque market town with a rich and fascinating history. Penrith Castle, of which the ruins are located directly behind the Station Hotel, was built between 1399 and 1470 as a defence against the Scottish raiders. (the photo on the right shows the ruins of Penrith Castle with the Station Hotel in the background)

The town has fantastic amenities including a wide variety of shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. There is a cinema, leisure complex, climbing wall, 18 hole golf course and local market amongst other attractions. Penrith railway station is on the main West Coast line between London and Glasgow, which is also the main pickup and drop off for the bus companies, and is only 2 minutes walks from the Station Hotel.

Surrounding Penrith are a number of beautiful hamlets and villages each with their own charm and history - Greystoke, Kirkoswald, Great Salkeld, Lazonby, Askham to name but a few. The village of Langwathby is on the famous Settle to Carlisle railway line.

Ullswater, the second largest lake is the Lake District, is approximately 5 miles from Penrith. The Ullswater Steamers sail from Pooley Bridge down to Glenridding via Howtown. The lake is excellent for watersports and the surrounding fells provide superb walks, mountain biking routes and rock climbing.