Penrith Building Society
Building SocietyPenrith Building Society is a small, independent Cumbrian mutual offering residential mortgages with local expertise and a personal approach to lending in the Eden Valley and Lake District region.

About Penrith Building Society
Penrith Building Society was established in 1877 in the Cumbrian market town of Penrith, at the gateway to the Lake District. The society has served the communities of the Eden Valley and surrounding areas for nearly 150 years, providing savings and mortgage products with a distinctly personal touch.
The society focuses on residential mortgage lending within its Cumbrian heartland, offering products suited to the local property market including rural and agricultural properties that many larger lenders may not consider. Penrith Building Society individually assesses every application, drawing on its local knowledge to make informed lending decisions.
As one of the UK's smallest building societies, Penrith maintains a fiercely independent spirit and strong community ties. The society supports local charities and community organisations across Cumbria. It is regulated by the FCA and PRA and is a member of the Building Societies Association.
Lending Focus
Penrith Building Society offers mortgage products across 1 categories including Residential.
Key Features
- Local expertise in Cumbrian and Lake District property market
- Individual underwriting with personal assessment of every case
- Can consider rural and agricultural properties
- Personal service from a small, independent mutual
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Local knowledge of Cumbrian property types including rural properties
- Personal service with direct access to decision makers
- Can consider properties that larger lenders might decline
- Independent mutual with strong community roots
Cons
- –Very limited lending area focused on Cumbria and the Eden Valley
- –No buy-to-let or specialist mortgage products
- –Maximum LTV of 80% requires a larger deposit
Fees & Charges
- Arrangement Fee
- Varies by product; typically £200–£400
- Valuation Fee
- Charged at cost depending on property value
- Early Repayment Charge
- 2–3% during the initial deal period
- Overpayment Allowance
- Contact the society for current overpayment terms
Mortgage Rates
Rate data coming soon. View rates on Penrith Building Society
| Product | Initial Rate | Type | Initial Term | Revert Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Year Fixed | TBC | Fixed | 24 months | TBC |
| 5 Year Fixed | TBC | Fixed | 60 months | TBC |
| Tracker | TBC | Variable | 24 months | TBC |
Application Process
- Processing Time
- 2–4 weeks
- Online DIP
- No — via broker or branch
- Offer Valid For
- 3 months
Lending Criteria
- Maximum LTV
- 80%
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Penrith Building Society lend?
Penrith Building Society primarily lends on properties in Cumbria and the Eden Valley area. The society has particular expertise in the Lake District property market.
Does Penrith Building Society lend on rural properties?
Yes, given its location and local expertise, Penrith Building Society can consider rural and agricultural properties that many larger lenders may not accept.
How do I apply for a Penrith Building Society mortgage?
You can apply by visiting the society's office in Penrith or by contacting them by telephone. The society offers personal appointments to discuss your mortgage requirements.
What deposit do I need for a Penrith Building Society mortgage?
Penrith Building Society typically requires a minimum deposit of 20%, meaning the maximum loan-to-value is 80%. This may vary depending on the property type and location.
How to Apply
Direct & broker access. Apply directly or via a broker for whole-of-market access. Find a broker
Similar Lenders
View all lenders| Name | Niches | Type | Max LTV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bath Building Society | Residential, Self Build | Building Soc. | 85% |
| Cumberland Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let | Building Soc. | 90% |
| Darlington Building Society | Residential, Buy-to-Let | Building Soc. | 90% |
| Ecology Building Society | Residential, Self Build | Building Soc. | 85% |
Related Articles
Practical guides and explainers from our blog — relevant to this mortgage type.

Affordable Homes Rise, But Mortgage Rates Limit Buyers
More homes are becoming affordable, but rising mortgage rates are reducing buyer interest.

April Mortgages: A Modern Approach to Lending
April Mortgages is enhancing its brand and operational efficiency to better serve borrowers and intermediaries, including new offerings for those over 50.

Managing a 35-Year Mortgage: Key Strategies for Borrowers
Understanding how to manage a 35-year mortgage is important for borrowers, especially as they approach retirement.

UK Property Market Activity Remains Subdued Amid Challenges
UK property market activity remains subdued as affordability and uncertainty weigh on buyers, with transactions down 2% year-on-year in August 2026.
On this page
Need help choosing a broker?
Get matched with relevant advisers.
Sample adviser photos for illustration.
100% free No obligation FCA Brokers only
View Lenders

Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial advice.Always verify lender details directly and seek independent advice before making financial decisions.
Social Media
Follow Penrith Building Society on social media for updates and insights.