Penrith

Penrith is a suburb in New South Wales. Population of 17,966 (2021 Census). Median age 36. Median household income $1,397/wk. Median rent $380/wk.

Penrith serves as a well-resourced base for exploring The Hawkesbury region and accessing the Blue Mountains. The area offers extensive trail networks with 82 hiking routes nearby, ranging from short urban walks to longer countryside tracks. The Nepean River provides water-based recreation and camping options, with multiple caravan parks within close range for overnight stays.

The town centre has comprehensive amenities including 91 shops and services, making it practical for restocking supplies and equipment. Multiple pubs and dining options cater to travellers, and the 135 public toilet facilities across the area support road trippers. Mobile coverage and services are reliable given the regional town status.

Travel Info

Must See

  • Ingenia Holidays Nepean RiverOn-site caravan park with river access for camping and water recreation.

Must Do

  • Broadwalk TrailShort accessible hiking route (0.4km away) suitable for a quick leg-stretch or half-day walk.
  • Explore Deeside Lane, Carinda Lane, and Sheppard Lane trailsLocal hiking options (2.2km away) offering countryside walks near the town.

Travel Tips

  • Fuel up and restock supplies in town before heading to remote trails—the 82 trails attract day-trippers and some lead to quieter areas.
  • Ingenia Holidays Nepean River caravan park (1.6–1.8km) is close to town; book ahead during school holidays and weekends.
  • The Broadwalk and Woodriff Street Mall trails (0.4km) are accessible urban walks; use them to stretch legs between driving.
  • Several pubs offer meals and amenities; Red Cow Inn and Rusty Penny Brewing are nearby for food and refreshment.
  • Check trail conditions before departing—the 82 routes vary in difficulty and some can be muddy after rain.
Traffic & Access: Penrith is well-connected via main roads; fuel and supplies are readily available in town. The M4 motorway provides direct access to Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer mild weather for trail walking; summer can be hot and winter occasionally cool.

Penrith at a Glance

ABS Census 2021
17,966
Population
36
Median Age
$1,397/wk
Median Household Income
2.1
Avg Household Size
$1,783/mo
Median Mortgage
$380/wk
Median Rent
36%
Home Ownership
60%
Renting
25%
Born Overseas
21%
University Educated
6.1%
Unemployment
1,334
Families