The Unicorn Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover unique gifts and charming homeware in the heart of Penrith at The Unicorn, a family-owned shop since 1991.

A brief summary of The Unicorn

Discover unique gifts and charming homeware in the heart of Penrith at The Unicorn, a family-owned shop since 1991.

The Unicorn is a charming independent gift shop located at 9 Little Dockray in the historic market town of Penrith, on the edge of the English Lake District. Founded in 1991, it offers a curated selection of beautiful soft toys, quality gifts, homeware, prints, and decorations. Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 5:00pm, The Unicorn is a delightful destination for visitors seeking unique and thoughtfully chosen items in a welcoming setting.

0.5–1.5 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
5.0 Excellent · 8 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon–Sat9:30 am–5 pm
  • SunClosed

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
9 Little Dockray, Penrith CA11 7HL
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take local bus services to Penrith Bus Station, approximately 10-15 minutes from the town center by foot. Buses run frequently from nearby towns with fares typically around £2-£5 depending on distance.

Train

Penrith Railway Station is about 1.5 km from The Unicorn, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Penrith to major cities including Carlisle and Newcastle, with fares starting from £10.

Car

Driving to Penrith is straightforward via the M6 motorway. Public parking is available near the town center, but spaces can be limited during peak times. Parking fees range from £1 to £3 per hour.

Discover more about The Unicorn

A Family-Owned Treasure in Penrith's Historic Core

The Unicorn has been a beloved independent family-run business since its establishment in 1991. Nestled in the heart of Penrith at 9 Little Dockray, it benefits from the town’s rich heritage as a historic market hub on the edge of the scenic English Lake District. This location offers visitors not only a shopping experience but also a connection to the local culture and community that has flourished here for centuries.

Curated Selection of Gifts and Homeware

Inside The Unicorn, you’ll find a carefully curated range of products that blend charm and quality. The shop specializes in beautiful soft toys that appeal to collectors and children alike, alongside a wide array of quality gifts and homeware items. Art prints and decorative pieces add an artistic flair, making it a perfect stop for those looking to find unique souvenirs or special presents that reflect the character of the region.

Atmosphere and Shopping Experience

The shop’s inviting atmosphere reflects its family-owned roots, with friendly staff ready to assist visitors in finding the perfect item. The layout balances accessibility with a boutique feel, encouraging leisurely browsing. The interior design complements the historic surroundings with a cozy, welcoming aesthetic that enhances the overall experience.

Location and Surroundings

Situated on Little Dockray, The Unicorn benefits from its proximity to Penrith’s other cultural and historical attractions. Penrith itself is a gateway to the Lake District, making the shop a convenient and appealing stop for tourists exploring the area. The town’s blend of old-world charm and vibrant local life provides a picturesque backdrop for a shopping excursion.

Opening Hours and Visitor Information

The Unicorn operates Monday through Saturday from 9:30am to 5:00pm, closing on Sundays. This schedule caters well to both locals and visitors, providing ample opportunity to explore its offerings during a day out in Penrith. While it does not have an on-site café or restaurant, nearby amenities in the town center complement a visit.

Supporting Local and Sustainable Practices

As an independent business, The Unicorn supports local artisans and sustainable retail practices by selecting products with care and promoting quality over mass production. This ethos aligns with the values of many visitors who seek meaningful and environmentally conscious shopping experiences.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 8am or from 8pm

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 50% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 63% of the busiest month
  5. May: 75% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 88% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 75% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 63% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 50% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 7am: 13% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 8am: 25% of the busiest hour
  3. 9am: 50% of the busiest hour
  4. 10am: 75% of the busiest hour
  5. 11am: 88% of the busiest hour
  6. 12pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  7. 1pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  8. 2pm: 88% of the busiest hour
  9. 3pm: 75% of the busiest hour
  10. 4pm: 63% of the busiest hour
  11. 5pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  12. 6pm: 38% of the busiest hour
  13. 7pm: 25% of the busiest hour
  14. 8pm: 13% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  15. 9pm: 13% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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