Penrith is better than its reputation. Sitting right on the edge of the Nepean River with access to the Penrith Lakes system, it has more free outdoor space than almost any suburb in Sydney. Here's what's worth visiting.
Penrith Lakes and Tench Reserve
The Penrith Lakes precinct is genuinely impressive — a large network of lakes and open parkland on the Nepean River floodplain. Tench Reserve sits at the heart of it, with access to flat walking paths, picnic areas, and river frontage.
Entry is free. The walking and cycling trails are easy and flat, which makes them suitable for prams and young kids on bikes or scooters. The lake views are great and it feels much further from the city than it is.
Address: Tench Reserve, Penrith Lakes — access via Castlereagh Road Entry: Free (parking can be limited on busy weekends) Facilities: Toilets, BBQs, picnic shelters, walking/cycling paths
Nepean River Foreshore
The Nepean River runs along the western edge of Penrith and there's a decent foreshore walk from near the rowing club down through to Victoria Bridge. It's flat, paved, and good for scooters or bikes. Watch for the rowing club carpark on weekends — it can get busy.
Jamison Park
Jamison Park is a large open park near Penrith station with good playground equipment, open ovals, and plenty of shade. It's one of the better all-ages playgrounds in the area and easy to reach from the station.
Address: Penrith Road, Penrith
Penrith City Park
A more recent addition to central Penrith — the City Park is a redesigned public space near the station with seating, greenery, and open space. Good for a short stop near the CBD.
Penrith Library
Penrith Library (and the broader Penrith City Library network) runs free story time sessions during school terms, plus school holiday activity programs.
Find current library events at Discover — search "Penrith" to see upcoming sessions.
Panthers precinct and open space
The area around Panthers (the NRL club's home ground) has parkland and BBQ areas accessible to the public on non-game days. The Nepean River frontage near the club is a pleasant walk.
Free council events
Penrith City Council runs family events throughout the year, particularly in school holidays and around seasonal festivals. Browse all upcoming events at Little Rascal.
On a rainy day
- Penrith Library — free, good children's section
- Penrith Aquatic and Recreation Centre — entry from around $6 for kids
- Penrith Panthers precinct — the shopping and entertainment centre has covered areas and food options
Getting there
Penrith is at the end of the T1 Western Line — about an hour from the CBD by train. The lakes and river foreshore are accessible by car; some spots are a moderate walk from the station.
Updated May 2026. Know a great free spot in Penrith we've missed? Let us know.