Background

The Unicorn Gift Shop in Penrith

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

★★★★★5 (8)

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.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to The Unicorn

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
9 Little Dockray, Penrith, CA11 7HL, GB
🕒
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
💷
Mid ranged
🏛
Indoor
📶
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Monday
9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-5 pm
Friday
9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Unicorn.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more personalized service.
Combine your visit with a walk around Penrith’s historic town center and nearby Lake District attractions.
Check out the selection of local art prints for unique souvenirs or gifts.
Plan your visit during opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5:00pm; closed Sundays.

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.

Explore places near The Unicorn

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of The Unicorn

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    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.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Information Boards

    The Unicorn location weather suitability

    Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.

    Weather icon
    Any Weather
    Weather icon
    Rain / Wet Weather
    Weather icon
    Mild Temperatures

    A brief summary to The Unicorn

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

    A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.

    Busiest months of the year

    Seasonality

    Busiest hours of the day

    Footfall
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Free Images : landscape, sea, coast, nature, morning, hill, river, valley,  mountain range, reflection, bay, fjord, reservoir, highland, body of water,  cumbria, colour, mountains, plateau, scarecrow, fell, loch, buttermere,  fells, bassenthwiate, tarn,

    More about Cumbria

    Discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of Cumbria, from the stunning Lake District to historic landmarks and vibrant local culture.

    Tell me more about Cumbria

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.