Saint Catherine's Catholic Church

Just outside Penrith, this Victorian Catholic church stands as a proper piece of 19th-century religious architecture, built when the area was experiencing significant expansion. The interior features the sort of careful stonework and stained glass you'd expect from that era - nothing flashy, but solidly done. It's the kind of place that rewards a quiet 20-minute wander if you're interested in church design, though it won't keep you occupied for hours.

Really, this works best as a stop-off rather than a destination in itself. If you're camping at Lowther Holiday Park or Crossfells Campsite nearby, it's close enough for a morning or late afternoon visit without eating into proper holiday time. History enthusiasts and anyone keen on Victorian religious buildings will find it worthwhile. Families with restless kids might find it a bit dull unless they're already into churches.

The location on Penrith's outskirts makes it straightforward to access if you're staying in one of the caravan parks scattered across this part of Cumbria - Waterfoot and Park Foot are both within easy driving distance. Worth a detour if you're exploring Penrith proper, but don't make a special trip from further afield. Check opening times locally, as church access can be unpredictable.