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Penshaw Monument
Stunning views from this 70-foot high monument
Chester Road, Penshaw, Tyne & Wear, DH4 7NJ
Opening times for 1 May 2025
Asset Opening time Countryside Open all day MTWTFSS282930123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930311OpenPartially openClosed- Dogs allowed
Please keep dogs under close control, on a lead around grazing cattle.
Access to monument roof top by steep spiral staircase, with 3.3ft (1m) minimum height requirement for rooftop visits. Climb up to the monument is very steep. There is a gentler route if you use the path through the gate to left of the main entrance gate, at the bottom of the hill.
- Steps/uneven terrain
- By road
On the A183, one mile from the A19
Parking: Limited parking is available at the bottom of Penshaw Hill. There is further parking nearby at Herrington Country Park
- On foot
Penshaw Monument is a short walk from Penshaw village
- By train
Chester-le-Street 5 miles
- By bus
A number of buses stop at or near the base of Penshaw Hill, including the 2, 2A and 78. Please be aware, services are subject to change at short notice. Please check gonortheast.co.uk for updates before travelling.
- Cycling
See Sustrans website for local cycle routes
Highlights
Monument
The Earl of Durham's 70ft-high monument sitting on top of Penshaw Hill with panoramic views.
Things to see and do
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Things to do at Penshaw Monument
Explore the site of the impressive 70ft-high Penshaw Monument. Take a tour to the top for some panoramic views over the North East or visit the nearby Penshaw Wood.
Places to stay
Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage 2
A cliff-top cottage perching in the shadows of the iconic red and white Souter Lighthouse.
Laundry Cottage
The perfect location for long days exploring the outdoors as well as rest and relaxation amongst nature.
Bolt Cottage
A cosy stone cottage in the beautiful grounds of the Wallington estate, perfect for walkers, cyclists and wildlife lovers.
Top trails
Trail
Penshaw Monument's Lambton Worm walk
A 2.6-mile walk uncovering the secrets of the Lambton worm near Penshaw Monument in Tyne and Wear.
Upcoming events
Event
Guided nature walk from Penshaw Monument
Explore the nature surrounding Penshaw Monument with a ranger.
About Penshaw Monument
On top of Penshaw Hill sits the Earl of Durham's Monument.
Better known as the Penshaw Monument, this 70 foot high monument is a replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens and can be seen for miles around. It is considered to be Wearside's most beloved landmark, even appearing on the badge of Sunderland Football Club.
Support us
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Volunteering opportunities at Penshaw Monument
Use your people skills or love of the outdoors to help us to care for Penshaw Monument and other special places across County Durham. Find out more about how you can get involved.