Penshaw Monument
Fee required
The Penshaw Monument is a 70-foot-tall Greek-style folly, a replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens. Built in 1844 to commemorate John George Lambton, 1st Earl of Durham, it features a secret spiral staircase and offers panoramic views from Penshaw Hill.

πŸ“œ Greek-style monument and folly, replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens. Built in 1844 to commemorate John George Lambton, 1st Earl of Durham. It is a Grade I listed structure and an iconic local landmark.

Why Go

πŸ›οΈ Impressive Doric Hexastyle temple architecture. Panoramic views from Penshaw Hill. Explore a secret spiral staircase (on designated open days). Walk through nearby woodland and explore local trails. Visit a local landmark, visible from afar.
πŸ• Dogs welcome (on lead around grazing cattle).

Why Avoid

⚠️ Steep climb to the monument. Staircase access restricted to designated open days with a fee.

Tips

πŸ…ΏοΈ Limited parking at bottom of Penshaw Hill, further parking available at Herrington Country Park.
πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Gentler route available through a path to the left of the main entrance gate.
πŸ—“οΈ Staircase access only on designated open days, check National Trust website. Dogs allowed, keep on lead around grazing cattle.

Cost

πŸ’° Free access to monument; Β£5 fee for staircase climb on designated open days.

Hours

πŸ•’ Countryside open all day; staircase access on designated open days only.

Last updated 1 day ago

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