
Penshaw Monument
An iconic Grecian-inspired temple monument offering stunning panoramic views of the North East England landscape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better climb slots

Penshaw Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better climb slots

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic Grecian-inspired temple monument offering stunning panoramic views of the North East England landscape.
"Climb to the top for breathtaking 360° views across the North East!"

🎟️ Book Climb Tickets Online
Secure your spot to climb the monument via the National Trust website. Advance booking is essential!
🌬️ Dress for the Wind
It can get very windy at the top. Bring layers and a windproof jacket for a comfortable visit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Climb to the Top
Inside the Monument
Ascend 76 steps for breathtaking 360° views of the North East, from the Cheviots to Durham Cathedral.

Herrington Country Park
Surrounding Area
Explore the scenic parkland, perfect for walks, picnics, and enjoying the monument's grandeur from below.

Iconic Silhouette
Exterior View
Admire the monument's striking resemblance to ancient Greek temples, a unique landmark against the skyline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Climb in Advance
Weather-Ready for Wind
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Climb Tickets Online
Secure your spot to climb the monument via the National Trust website. Advance booking is essential!
🌬️ Dress for the Wind
It can get very windy at the top. Bring layers and a windproof jacket for a comfortable visit.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing some walking in the park and climbing steps, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning panoramic shots from the top and of the monument itself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Climb Tickets Online
Secure your spot to climb the monument via the National Trust website. Advance booking is essential!
🌬️ Dress for the Wind
It can get very windy at the top. Bring layers and a windproof jacket for a comfortable visit.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing some walking in the park and climbing steps, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning panoramic shots from the top and of the monument itself.
☕ Nearby Refreshments
Grab coffee and cake from local spots like Penshaw Farm Shop before or after your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Penshaw Monument for its iconic status and the breathtaking panoramic views available from its summit. The opportunity to climb the monument is a major draw, offering a unique historical and scenic experience. While the climb itself is a highlight, the surrounding Herrington Country Park also receives positive mentions for its walking trails and natural beauty.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penshaw Monument is accessible by car, with parking available at Herrington Country Park. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop nearby. Many visitors enjoy walking or cycling to the monument through the park.
Yes, there is parking available at Herrington Country Park, which is adjacent to the monument. This parking area serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the monument and the surrounding parkland.
Absolutely! Herrington Country Park offers lovely walking trails that lead to and around the Penshaw Monument. It's a popular route for locals and visitors alike, offering scenic views along the way.
Yes, Penshaw Monument is located just a few miles south-east of Sunderland city centre, making it an easily accessible landmark for those visiting the region.
For flexibility, driving is often recommended. However, for those who enjoy a stroll, public transport to nearby areas followed by a walk through Herrington Country Park is a great option. Check local bus timetables for routes serving the Penshaw area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and exterior of Penshaw Monument is generally free. However, to climb to the top of the monument, you need to book a timed ticket with the National Trust, which has a fee.
The cost to climb the monument is typically around £5 per person. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for the most current pricing and booking information.
It is highly recommended to book your climb tickets in advance online through the National Trust website. Availability on the day can be limited, and booking ahead ensures your preferred time slot.
The monument grounds are usually accessible during daylight hours. The timed slots for climbing the monument are managed by the National Trust and vary seasonally. Always check their website for specific opening times and climb availability.
The climb involves ascending 76 steps within the monument's columns. It requires a reasonable level of fitness and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or severe claustrophobia. Check with the National Trust for specific accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful light for dramatic shots of the monument.
Clear days provide expansive views from the top, while misty mornings can add an atmospheric touch.Drone photography is popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives.
However, always check current drone regulations and guidelines for the area before flying.From the top, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Herrington Country Park, the coast, and on clear days, you can see as far as the Cheviot Hills and Durham Cathedral spire.
Yes, the monument itself is highly photogenic from various angles. The surrounding Herrington Country Park also offers scenic backdrops, especially with the changing seasons.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the monument's scale and the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant landmarks. Don't forget a tripod for low-light or long-exposure shots, especially at sunset or sunrise.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is climbing the monument for incredible views. You can also explore Herrington Country Park, enjoy walks, spot wildlife, and take in the monument's impressive architecture from ground level.
A quick visit to see the monument from the outside and take photos might take 30-60 minutes. If you plan to climb the monument and explore Herrington Country Park, allow 2-3 hours.
Herrington Country Park, adjacent to the monument, typically has public toilets. There are no facilities directly within the monument itself. Nearby cafes and shops can be found in the surrounding areas.
Yes, Herrington Country Park is an ideal spot for a picnic. There are plenty of open spaces to relax and enjoy your food with views of the monument.
The history of Penshaw Monument dates back to 1844. It was built to commemorate John George Lambton, the first Earl of Durham, and is modelled on the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for wildlife in the park and make it a nature scavenger hunt. While there are no specific play areas within the monument itself, the surrounding country park is very child-friendly. Remember to book climb tickets in advance, especially during school holidays, and pack snacks and drinks for a full day of exploration.
🚶 Hikers and Walkers
Consider incorporating the monument into a longer route that explores the wider countryside. The elevated position of the monument also means that many walking routes offer rewarding views as you approach. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and check the weather, as it can be exposed and windy.
📸 Photographers
For aerial shots, drones offer unique angles of the monument and its landscape. From the top, capture sweeping panoramas of the North East. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for the monument's scale and the expansive views, while telephoto lenses can pick out distant landmarks. Don't forget to capture the monument against different skies and seasons for a varied portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Penshaw Monument
The monument's construction was a significant undertaking, and its enduring presence speaks to its architectural significance and the local pride it evokes. Visitors often remark on its unexpected resemblance to ancient Greek ruins, a fascinating juxtaposition against the British landscape. The history of Penshaw Monument is deeply intertwined with the Lambton family and the industrial heritage of the region.
While the exterior is impressive, the opportunity to climb inside offers a different perspective. The internal structure, though not as grand as the exterior suggests, houses the steps that lead to the viewing platform. This climb, a key part of the visitor experience, allows for an intimate connection with the monument's construction and offers unparalleled views.
Experiencing the Views from the Top
Once at the summit, the 360° views are truly spectacular. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with landmarks such as the Cheviot Hills to the north and the distinctive spire of Durham Cathedral to the south often visible. The monument's elevated position provides an excellent vantage point for appreciating the rolling countryside, the coastline, and the urban sprawl of nearby cities like Sunderland.
Many visitors recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions. The changing light can transform the landscape, making for unforgettable photographic opportunities and a truly memorable experience of the North East's beauty.
Exploring Herrington Country Park
The park is crisscrossed with well-maintained paths, ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls around the lake, observe local wildlife, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy a picnic with the monument as a backdrop. It's a popular destination for families and dog walkers, contributing to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Herrington Country Park also serves as a gateway to the monument, allowing visitors to approach it through scenic routes. The combination of the imposing monument and the tranquil parkland creates a unique and enjoyable experience, blending history, nature, and recreation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit