The Old URC
- Premier host
- Penrith, Cumbria, England
- See on map
- Sleeps: 4
- Bedrooms: 2
- Bathroom: 1
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
The former Penruddock Presbyterian Meeting House dates all the way back to 1654, becoming a vibrant hub of worship and the pride of the village community in the centuries that followed.
In 2017, new owners Dylan and Debbie transformed what became the Old United Reformed Church (or the Old URC, as it’s affectionately known!) into a cosy and tranquil Lake District retreat with carefully-preserved original features.
The quaint limestone village of Penruddock is a hidden gem of the Lake District National Park; just five miles from Pooley Bridge and Ullswater yet with none of the tourist-driven hustle and bustle. Surrounded by everything that makes this part of the world so jaw-droppingly beautiful, you’ll feel blissfully far away from the beaten track.
Instead, you’re free to gaze out at uninterrupted, captivating views of Ullswater Valley, the soaring northern fells, and sheep-and-cow-dotted countryside through enormous church windows, as you relax and unwind with your loved ones.
Inside is a wondrous mix of luxurious home comforts with intriguing period features. The wood-burning stove will warm well-deserved evenings in front of the TV or playing a board game… after long days spent exploring the Lake District in all its natural glory.
You’ll find the modern kitchen packed with sleek Bosch appliances – there’s even a dishwasher to make short work of clearing up after mealtimes – while the dining room boasts a vintage Harvey Nichols table and an original church pew, as well as fresh flowers to brighten your days.
When it’s finally time to turn in, there are two elegant, underfloor-heated bedrooms to choose from. The luxury kingsize master room is adorned with original exposed beams, hand-made furniture and expansive rural views to wake up to, along with a snuggly, hotel-quality duvet.
Keep readingAt a glance
- A 17th century, Grade II listed church, carefully transformed into a comfortable and scenic retreat in the peaceful Lake District village of Penruddock.
- The retreat sleeps up to four guests in one kingsize and one twin bedroom.
- Self-contained facilities include a modern kitchen and a bathroom with an indulgent walk-in shower.
- The tranquil, graveyard-facing garden area is ideal for morning coffee or enjoying a bottle of wine under the stars.
- Pooley Bridge and Ullswater are just five miles away, with plenty of scope for lakeside walks, mountain hikes, watersports, and shopping in the surrounding area.
Features
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Facilities
Lounge with wood-burning stove and basket of logs, Smart TV with streaming services, sofa, armchair, original corner pews, board games, OS maps, guidebooks. Dining area with vintage Harvey Nichols table, original church pew, fresh flowers. Kitchen with electric oven and hob, Bosch appliances, dishwasher, washer/dryer, SMEG fridge/freezer, tea, coffee, sugar and milk. Master kingsize and twin bedroom with quality bedding, linen and underfloor heating. Bathroom with walk-in shower, double-ended bathtub, premium toiletries, heated towel rail, underfloor heating. Graveyard-facing garden area with furniture. Free private parking.
Local activities
Walking, cycling, wildlife-watching, stargazing, picnic spots, lakes, mountains, watersports, village shops, boat trips, pubs, restaurants, historic sites.
More information
There’s also a delightful twin room with antique single beds and comfy memory-foam mattresses. All beds are dressed in high-quality linen from Out of Eden, to help you drift off into a sound night of slumber.
Freshen up in the indulgent, ecclesiastical-tiled bathroom, complete with a double-ended bathtub and separate walk-in shower, a heated towel rail, and premium toiletries. Then it’s on to planning the day ahead; perhaps sat out in the serene, graveyard-facing garden area with a fresh mug of coffee.
Pack a picnic and stroll along the Ullswater Way, accompanied by idyllic lakeside views, or if you’re feeling energetic lace up those hiking boots and tackle the nearby Blencathra or Helvellyn mountains!
You’ll find plenty of charming villages, towns, and of course lakes, close by too; all offering myriad ways to spend your time, from boating and watersports to independent shops, friendly pubs, and invigorating woodland walks.
Things to note
Pets are permitted to stay for an additional fee – please advise on booking. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property. An EV charging point is available.
Current Offers
This July, we’re slowing things down at The Old URC and offering discounted 7-day stays! Take a week to relax, explore the Lake District, and enjoy a great deal.
Where you'll be staying
Penrith, Cumbria
What the guests of The Old URC say
“It’s a privilege to stay somewhere like this. Beautifully and thoughtfully restored and one of our favourite venues ever. Such a great location and bonus brilliant weather—thank you!”
“We had a wonderful stay! The church has been beautifully renovated, and everything was spotlessly clean. The fireplace made it feel extra cosy, the beds were very comfortable, and the large bathtub was a lovely touch.”
“First class property! This is such a beautiful home in a peaceful setting. Everything is the best of quality from the bathroom to the kitchen to the comfortable beds and sofas. It’s really in a league of its own.”
