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Pennington

Attractions and Places To See around Pennington - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Pennington include a variety of historical sites, natural viewpoints, and cultural landmarks. The region offers opportunities to explore rugged upland landscapes, coastal areas, and significant historical monuments. Visitors can discover ancient ruins, impressive stately homes, and scenic tarns, providing a diverse range of outdoor and cultural experiences.

Best attractions and places to see around Pennington

  • The most popular attractions is Beacon Tarn, a viewpoint that is nestled within a rugged upland landscape just below Beacon Fell. This relatively shallow tarn is known as a wild swimming spot and is a tranquil place, especially on a warm day.
  • Another must-see spot is Sir John Barrow Monument, a historical site and viewpoint. This 30-meter tower sits atop Hoad Hill in Ulverston, commemorating Sir John Barrow, a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society.
  • Visitors also love Hodbarrow Lighthouse, a historical site and viewpoint. This disused lighthouse is a poignant landmark surrounded by a landscape that is now an RSPB nature reserve, offering opportunities for birdwatching.
  • Pennington is known for its historical sites, natural viewpoints, and family-friendly attractions. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to scenic natural spots.
  • The attractions around Pennington are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 130 upvotes and over 50 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: July 3, 2026

Beacon Tarn

Highlight • Viewpoint

This pretty tarn is situated nestled within a rugged upland landscape just below Beacon Fell. The relatively shallow tarn has a reputation as a wild swimming spot and you may see a few folks braving the waters in hot weather.

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Hodbarrow Lighthouse

Highlight • Viewpoint

The Hodbarrow Lighthouse is a poignant landmark surrounded by a landscape that has seen former glory turn to financial collapse. Before the Hodbarrow mines closed in 1968 they were the most productive iron-ore mines in the world, employing 2,000 workers at their height. Most of the site is now an RSPB nature reserve. Great-crested grebe, tufted duck, ringed plover, oystercatcher and little tern can be seen here, amongst others.

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Sir John Barrow Monument

Highlight • Historical Site

The Sir John Barrow Monument is a 30 metre tower at the top of the 133 metre Hoad Hill, at Ulverston. It commemorates Sir John Barrow (1764-1848), who was born in Ulverston and was a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society. He travelled to China and South Africa as a diplomat and held the post of Second Secretary to the Admiralty from 1804 until 1845. The monument is not a lighthouse: it has never had a functional light.

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Furness Abbey Ruins

Highlight • Monument

Once second only to Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire in terms of wealth and power, Furness Abbey was a Cistercian monastery of great importance. Today, it is an impressive sandstone ruin and an evocative vestige of former glory.

The site contains a number of Grade I-listed buildings and is a Scheduled Monument. Built in 1123, it is located in the Vale of Nightshade to the south of Dalton. It was passed to the Cistercians in 1147.

During their time here, the Cistercians built the nearby Piel Castle on Piel Island to oversee trade between the Furness Peninsula and another of their strongholds: the Isle of Man. On the orders of Henry VIII, the abbey was destroyed 1537.

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Holker Hall and Gardens

Highlight • Natural

The former home of the Dukes of Devonshire, Holker Hall is a grand 16th-century stately home.

There's 25 acres (10 ha) of beautifully sculpted and curated formal gardens, whilst the surrounding parkland, deer park and woodland sprawl across a further 200 acres (80 ha).

For more information regarding a visit, check out holker.co.uk

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Tips from the Community

Wigglewally
May 30, 2026, Sir John Barrow Monument

If the flags are flying (you can see them from booths car park) the hoad is open.

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easy walk around / run around, good trail nice surface, smooth onclines, plenty of resting areas . maybe a bit muddy with big piddles on rainy days! I've done it with my 3+ yo.

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Patricia
May 20, 2025, Beacon Tarn

Very peaceful spot for a break.

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Ian Baines
August 14, 2024, Beacon Tarn

The Cumbria Way passes by the side of Beacon Tarn. It is a lovely tranquil spot especially on a warm sunny day.

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The Sir John Barrow Monument is a 30 metre tower at the top of the 133 metre Hoad Hill, at Ulverston. It commemorates Sir John Barrow (1764-1848), who was born in Ulverston and was a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society. He travelled to China and South Africa as a diplomat and held the post of Second Secretary to the Admiralty from 1804 until 1845. The monument is not a lighthouse: it has never had a functional light.

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Easily accessible on gravel bike and can be made as part of a loop around the sea wall.

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Great little monument to walk up to. Great views from the top and easily accessible.

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In dire need of some TLC the poor lighthouse!!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Pennington?

The area around Pennington offers several natural highlights. You can visit Beacon Tarn, a tranquil, relatively shallow tarn nestled in a rugged upland landscape, known for wild swimming. The area around Hodbarrow Lighthouse is now an RSPB nature reserve, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying coastal views.

Are there historical sites to visit near Pennington?

Yes, Pennington is rich in historical sites. You can explore the impressive sandstone ruins of Furness Abbey Ruins, a former Cistercian monastery of great importance. Another significant historical landmark is the Sir John Barrow Monument, a 30-meter tower commemorating a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society. Additionally, Holker Hall and Gardens is a grand 16th-century stately home with extensive gardens and parkland.

What family-friendly attractions are available in the Pennington area?

Several attractions around Pennington are suitable for families. The Sir John Barrow Monument offers an enjoyable walk with great views from the top. The area around Hodbarrow Lighthouse, now an RSPB nature reserve, is excellent for birdwatching. Families can also explore the historic Furness Abbey Ruins and the beautiful grounds of Holker Hall and Gardens.

Can I go hiking near Pennington's attractions?

Absolutely! The Pennington area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find routes that pass by attractions like Beacon Tarn and the Sir John Barrow Monument. For more detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Pennington guide, which includes trails like the 'Foot of Ulverston Canal – Birkrigg Trig Point loop'.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching around Pennington?

Yes, the area around Hodbarrow Lighthouse is particularly good for birdwatching. The site is now an RSPB nature reserve where you can spot various species such as Great-crested grebe, tufted duck, ringed plover, oystercatcher, and little tern.

Where can I find scenic views around Pennington?

For panoramic views, head to the Sir John Barrow Monument atop Hoad Hill, which offers extensive vistas. Beacon Tarn, nestled in a rugged upland landscape, also provides a tranquil and scenic spot, especially on a warm day.

What kind of outdoor activities are popular in the Pennington region?

Beyond exploring attractions, the Pennington region is popular for various outdoor activities. Hiking, running, and mountain biking are well-catered for. You can find specific routes and guides for these activities, such as the Hiking around Pennington, Running Trails around Pennington, and MTB Trails around Pennington guides.

Is there a place for wild swimming near Pennington?

Yes, Beacon Tarn is known as a wild swimming spot. Its relatively shallow waters and tranquil setting make it tempting for those looking to brave the waters on a warm day.

What do visitors enjoy the most about Pennington's attractions?

Visitors appreciate the diverse range of experiences. Many enjoy the tranquil beauty of places like Beacon Tarn and the historical significance of sites like Sir John Barrow Monument, which also offers great views. The unique blend of history and nature, such as the RSPB reserve around Hodbarrow Lighthouse, is also highly valued.

What is the history behind Furness Abbey?

Furness Abbey was a Cistercian monastery founded in 1123, once second only to Fountains Abbey in terms of wealth and power. It played a significant role in the region, even building Piel Castle to oversee trade. The abbey was ultimately destroyed in 1537 on the orders of Henry VIII, leaving behind the impressive sandstone ruins we see today.

Can I find running trails near the attractions?

Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Pennington's attractions. You can explore routes like the 'Running loop from Pennington' or the 'Running loop from Swarthmoor'. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Running Trails around Pennington guide.

What is the significance of the Sir John Barrow Monument?

The Sir John Barrow Monument is a 30-meter tower located on Hoad Hill in Ulverston. It commemorates Sir John Barrow (1764-1848), who was born in Ulverston and was a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society. He served as Second Secretary to the Admiralty for many years and was a significant figure in exploration and diplomacy.

Are there mountain biking trails available in the area?

Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails around Pennington. Routes such as the 'Green Moor Descent loop from Gawthwaite' offer opportunities for MTB. More options can be found in the MTB Trails around Pennington guide.

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Most popular attractions around Pennington

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