Although this shopping area isn’t particularly notable, I must say that it isn’t as bad as some reviews might suggest, and my preconceptions of tumbleweed and graffiti were unfounded. My positivity is no doubt due to the fact that I viewed New Squares as a part of the town centre in general, which is rather attractive. Indeed, I now feel almost guilty at the countless times I’ve simply driven past Penrith on my journeys between North Yorkshire and Scotland without ever having a look at the town. So, if you’ve never been to Penrith, let me advise that it is a good looking and interesting town.

Counted 12 empty shop units. How embarrassing. Shopped in Sainsbury's and there were more staff than customers. Walked around the old town which had much more life and atmosphere.