Penrith railway station opens new community garden

The Mayor of Penrith, Councillor Val Bowen, officially opened a new community garden at Penrith railway station on 7 October 2026. The garden occupies platform 2 and was redesigned by the volunteer group Penrith Community Gardeners with support from local businesses and Avanti West Coast, the station’s operator. The space now contains a selection of herbs, including rosemary, sage and thyme, and is intended as a calming picnic area for passengers and residents.

The project was funded through a donation point at the station that encourages people to give unwanted seeds, seedlings and plants. Since the initiative began four years ago, it has raised more than £2,500 for the Penrith Community Gardeners, who maintain the planters and displays. Volunteers who collect items can make a small monetary donation to support the group’s work.

The revamped picnic garden is the latest delivery by the community group. Work is also underway to create a red deer‑themed garden on platform 1, honouring the Lake District’s most recognisable animal and the largest species of its type in the UK.

Avanti West Coast Station Manager Mark Green said the garden supports the company’s commitment to engage local people in the railway and hopes the area will be enjoyed by customers and residents alike. Joan Robinson of Penrith Community Gardeners noted that passengers, who number hundreds of thousands each year, often comment on the station’s improved appearance and express appreciation for the garden’s friendly atmosphere.