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.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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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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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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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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