Penrith Events: What's On?

Penrith is a peaceful town with scenic walks along the River Eden, whilst also boasting a lively entertainment scene and a variety of cosy family-run restaurants. Visit historical attractions like King Arthur's Round Table and Brougham Castle.

Left is a full calendar of events from local markets to live entertainment and major events like the Penrith Winter Droving and Penrith Agricultural Show.

Use our Eden Valley events service to find out more about what's on in Eden Valley or venture a bit further north to enjoy some Carlisle events.

Penrith Market, every Tuesday from 8am to 3:30pm.

Penrith, 3rd tuesday of every month, from 9am to 3.30pm.

Pooley Bridge, last Sunday of every month (April to September), 10.30am-2.30pm.

Stainton, 3rd Saturday of the month from 9.30am to 2pm.

Below you'll find a selection of castles near Penrith. Our mapping service provides a complete collection of Cumbrian castles with links to our network of community groups where you can ask questions. You will also find a link to the comunity's events calendar to help plan your visit.

Penrith Castle: Penrith Castle was begun at the end of the 14th century by Ralph Neville, who played a key role in defending this area against the Scots. It was later transformed into a luxurious residence by Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who became Richard III. Surviving to their full height, the castle walls stand in a public park.

Brougham Castle: In a picturesque setting beside the crossing of the River Eamont, Brougham Castle was founded in the early 13th century. This great keep largely survives, amid many later buildings including the unusual double gatehouse and impressive 'Tower of League'. Both a formidable barrier against Scots invaders and a prestigious residence, the castle welcomed Edward I in 1300.

Lowther Castle: The castle was first constructed in the early 19th century. For 130 years the castle was a beacon of grandeur, a place where the great and the good came to enjoy a remarkable art collection and fabled setting. But after two wars and a prolonged period of underinvestment, the castle’s fortunes turned. In 1957, its roof was removed while the gardens were overplanted with a commercial spruce plantation. Today, thanks to a great deal of hard work and investment, the castle ruins are stable while the gardens themselves have been brought back to life.

South Lakes Safari Zoo: The zoo is home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals in unique natural environments which enable you to get as close as physically possible to experience the amazing creatures with which we share our planet. Wander amongst kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Be amazed as free-flying macaws soar overhead. Participate in animal feeding experiences or be a zookeeper for a day.

Grizedale Forest: Explore the forest on two wheels, foot or horse back and keep your eyes peeled along the way for our unique sculptures which are dotted throughout the forest. Adrenaline junkies should head to the Treetop Challenge or Zip Trekking Adventure if seriously high-level tree-top crossings and incredible zip wire flights get your pulse quickening.

Treetop Nets: Bounce, slide and explore your way along this unique adventure set high up in the trees of Windermere. Treetop Nets will see you enjoying 1-2 hours of bouncy fun, with ball parks, a crawl tunnel, super-fast slides and aerial walkways to get stuck into. This family-friendly activity under the tree canopy is the perfect option for mini-adventurers and parents who want a guaranteed early night.

Long Meg and her Daughters: Found near Great Salkeld you will find one of the finest stone circles in the north of England. The circle has a diameter of about 350 feet, the second biggest in the country. At about 12 feet high, Long Meg is the tallest of the 69 stones. The stones probably date from about 1500 BC and it was likely to have been used as a meeting place or for some form of religious ritual.