Castle Park

The remains of a medieval castle sit within this nature reserve just outside Penrith, though honestly the earthworks are fairly subtle - you won't spot dramatic stone walls or dramatic ruins here. What you actually get is a proper walk through woodland with the historical layers tucked underneath, which appeals to a certain type of visitor and will bore others senseless.

It's essentially a wooded reserve where the castle foundations tell a story if you're into that sort of thing. Medieval history buffs will find it rewarding; families with young kids after dramatic tower-climbing might find it a bit underwhelming. The walk itself is pleasant enough, with decent paths through the trees, and it's genuinely peaceful - the kind of spot where you can think without crowds.

The location works well if you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks like Lowther Holiday Park or Crossfells Campsite, both within a couple of miles. It's close enough to Penrith itself to mix with a broader itinerary rather than being a standalone destination. Allow an hour or so for a decent amble, maybe longer if you're reading up on the castle history as you go.

Free entry as far as I could gather, with no obvious visitor facilities, so pack a bottle of water. Best visited when the woodland paths aren't waterlogged - autumn and early spring probably win out over winter mud. It's the sort of place that repays a quiet morning better than an afternoon when you're knackered.