Bank House
Katie HaleClose to the centre of Penrith, Bank House is a stylish family-run bed and breakfast, in a Victorian house with a traditional garden.
At Bank House, there’s a real feeling of being invited into somebody’s home – albeit a very beautifully furnished one. When you arrive, you’ll be ushered into the cosy sitting room and served tea and coffee, with homemade cake or biscuits, while you look through the information about the local area and plan your stay.
When you’re ready to be shown to your room, you’ll find them sumptuously decorated, each with its own unique character. With just four bedrooms, Bank House prides itself on quality, not quantity. The bedrooms are a delightful blend of antique furniture, contemporary comfort, and all the modern amenities, including free WiFi and elegant en suites.
There’s also a focus on sustainability, local business and environmental responsibility, so a stay here can set your conscience at rest, as well as your body. Pamper yourself with local handmade toiletries from Pure Lakes, before sinking back into the organic cotton sheets.
The “breakfast” bit of the B&B is incredible, too. Bank House uses locally sourced produce, including meat from a local butcher, and homebaked bread using flour ground at the local Watermill, all combining to create delicious and hearty English breakfasts – so it’s no wonder they’ve received not one, but two Breakfast Awards from Visit England.
Once you’re full and ready to start the day, it’s just a few minutes’ walk into Penrith town centre, or a short drive to numerous attractions in the Eden Valley and the Lake District National Park. And, if you’re struggling to decide how to spend your stay, Bank House has a range of literature to help you, and the staff will be more than happy to share their tips and local expertise.