The Beacon

Great views Woodland Local wildlife

The Beacon walk is one of Penrith's most popular dog walking routes, offering spectacular views across the Eden Valley, the Lake District fells, and towards the Pennines. This historic hill was once used as a signal station, with beacons lit to warn of approaching danger. Today, it's a peaceful nature reserve and a perfect place for a refreshing walk with your four-legged friend. The walk begins at the car park near Beacon Edge and follows well-marked paths through woodland before ascending to the summit where the Beacon Pike monument stands. From here, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in all directions. On clear days, you can see as far as Cross Fell in the Pennines and the distant outline of the Lakeland fells. The terrain varies from woodland paths to open grassland, providing an interesting and stimulating environment for dogs to explore. The relatively short distance makes it an ideal walk for most fitness levels, though there is a moderate climb to reach the summit.

1/7

Walk Stats

View route in Strava

Distance

2.5 miles

Time

50 mins

Lead Info

Dogs can be off-lead throughout the walk. There’s no livestock along the route.

Best Seasons

Parts of the trail can get very boggy in winter.

Parking

Parking available on the grass verge at the start of the walk

Route Instructions

Step 1: Once you’ve parked up, head through the gate and up the hill on the gravel path

Step 2: After you reach the top of the hill, you’ll see the path fork, just go right.

Step 3: Keep walking along the track for about a mile

Step 4: When you come to the next fork, take the right path and stroll down the hill

Step 5: Once you reach the bottom of the hill, head left at the fork

Step 6: Fallen trees are blocking the main path, so follow the arrow to navigate round them

Step 7: After you’ve walked past the fallen trees, stick to the arrow to hop back onto the main path

Step 8: When you spot a fork on the main path, head left and stroll up the hill

Step 9: Once you reach the top of the hill, swing right at the fork

Optionally, you can take a detour to the left and you'll reach the Beacon monument around 50 meters down the path.

Step 10: Stay on the trail all the way to the end of the walk

There are some more fallen trees blocking the path, but you can stroll around them with no trouble.

Perfect spot to refuel

Cross Keys

Dog Friendly Serves Food

A charming traditional pub in the heart of Penrith, offering a warm welcome to walkers and their four-legged friends. The Cross Keys serves hearty pub classics and a selection of local ales, perfect for refueling after exploring The Beacon. In warmer months, enjoy a refreshing drink in the sunny beer garden.

View on Maps Visit Website

Keep Exploring

Other routes worth sniffing out

There's more to explore! Each featured walk offers its own charm, whether it's riverside rambles or hillside hikes. Your next favourite route could be just below.

View all walks