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Kendal Gateway to The Lakes
Kendal Gateway to The Lakes
Kendal Gateway to The Lakes

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Kendal

Bustling Kendal is a major gateway town to the Lake District, its nickname of ‘Auld Grey Town’ due to the distinctive limestone used in so many of its buildings. Grey may be the dominant colour here, but there’s nothing sombre about it – its excellent restaurants, busy shopping district and creative arts centre a guarantee of vibrant life. Historically, this was a major wool producing centre – the famous ‘Kendal Green’ one of several Kendal cottons produced in the workshops that once occupied its many yards. But for most visitors, Kendal is synonymous with its famous mint cake, a staple of many a mountaineer’s backpack and important sustenance for Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on their Everest ascent in 1953.

Food & Drink in Kendal

No one blends the old and new as well as Kendal with its ancient buildings in which to buy exquisite handmade chocolates, or wander down on of the famous yards of Kendal. . There’s also a rapidly expanding, contemporary food scene here, with quirky bistros and cool cocktail bars offering charcuterie boards or a tasty craft gin.

Try one of the many cosy coffee shops – there’s one of the oldest coffee roasting and blending shops in the country here. Go shopping in one of the artisan bakeries, the farmers market or one of the nearby farm shops.

There are also superb delicatessens’ and a wealth of informal and friendly international restaurants to try, not to mention creative vegetarian food to tuck into, whilst overlooking the beautiful riverside. Or how about dining in an old brewery, complete with Vats bar and a Grain store restaurant? There are wonderful eclectic menus to choose from – and you also get to watch a show or gig before or after your meal. There are many gorgeous restaurants here, all in a relaxed setting offering the best seasonal and local ingredients. If fine dining is your thing, there’s a Two AA Rosette restaurant for a unique dining experience.

Some of the most exciting hand-brewed beers around, both in Kendal and the surrounding area, are to be tried here. From pubs set on a village green, to traditional pubs with a contemporary style, you’ll find the food is always wholesome and homecooked, try the salt marsh lamb with some locally grown veg, it’s delicious. Before you leave Kendal though, a slab of Kendal Mintcake packed in your suitcase is a must!

In the traditional Lakeland village of nearby Staveley, you’ll find the Mill Yard, which houses everything from a micro-brewery and a cookery school- to an artisan bakery and a family-friendly, riverside café, selling delicious snacks and homecooked lunches. Set within the heart of the village, you will find a traditional pub with roaring fires, offering a high-standard of food with a warm welcome. There’s also a riverside beer garden, to enjoy a pint on a warm summer day. You can’t leave Staveley without a visit to the nearby village of Ings, to sample a super friendly, little pub, with a vibrant atmosphere. The beer is brewed on site and the food is excellent.

Lyth Valley has to offer the best selection of high-quality pubs within a relatively small area. From the villages of Brigsteer, Crosthwaite and Underbarrow to Bowland Bridge and Winster, you will find delightful pubs all set either in the valley itself, or perched high above the valley, offering the most spectacular views. Lyth is a beautiful and peaceful walking area, set away from the crowds, so what better way to finish your hike, than finishing up in one of these gorgeous county pubs.

Culture & Heritage

Kendal’s origins date back to the 8th century, when the monastic settlement of Kirkland was established near a crossing point over the River Kent. William II, the third son of William the Conqueror, created the Barony of Kendal toward the end of the 11th century to secure his northern territories: the first castle, a wooden motte and bailey, was erected at Castle Howe but later replaced by stone-built Kendal Castle on the opposite side of the river.

This 13th-century castle was built to impress: six towers connected by a curtain wall atop a glacial hill and protected by a dry moat – it was clear the Normans meant business. In the late 14th century the Barony of Kendal and the castle passed into the hands of the Parr family, whose most famous member, Catherine, married Henry VIII in 1543 and managed to avoid the fate of several of her predecessors, outliving him by one year. By this stage, however, the family had abandoned the castle for more comfortable lodgings in Kendal proper and the castle fell into the disrepair you see today.

Medieval Kendal was built around a high street lined on both sides by fortified alleyways known as burgage plots, where the local populace would take shelter during the inevitable raids by Scottish raiders known as Border Reivers. Over time these plots became industrial ‘yards,’ full of workshops for weaving, dyeing, shearing, dry-salting and tanning. Kendal soon became a major centre for the wool trade, which explains its Latin motto – Pannus mihi panis – or ‘wool is my bread,’ and the tenter hooks on the Kendal coat-of-arms.

Many different woollen cloths were made in Kendal but the most famous is ‘Kendal Green', a hardwearing cloth said to have been worn by the Kendal Bowmen who fought at the battles of Crecy in 1346 and Poitiers in 1356. Shakespeare refers to ‘Kendal green' in Henry IV (Part I), so it was already well-known by 1597. The green colour was achieved by first steeping the cloth in a yellow dye from dyer’s greenweed (Genista tinctoria) and overdyeing it in blue from woad (Isatis tinctoria) or indigo. Kendal Green was later exported to America where it was worn by slaves working in the plantations. In return, Kendal would receive sugar and tobacco – raw materials that gave rise to the mint cake and snuff-making trade in town.

Kendal was linked to the canal network in 1819, which did wonders for trade and brought renewed prosperity to the town. This all ended with the arrival of the railroad in 1846 and both trade and the canal went into gradual decline: commercial traffic ceased in 1947 and the canal closed to all navigation in 1955.

For more information about Kendal, take a look at the Visit Kendal website.

Surrounding Areas

Staveley - The bustling village of Staveley nestles at the foot of the secluded Kentmere Valley. Its history shaped by two rivers: the fast-flowing river Kent and the smaller river Gowan. An area of rolling countryside interspersed with valleys, woods, hedges and drystone walls.

Lyth Valley - This hidden corner of Cumbria is famed for its damsons. In early spring, frothy clouds of white blossom greet the onlooker at every turn - a snowy spectacle marked by Damson Day in mid-April. This hugely popular event brings together local producers, growers and various craftspeople in celebration of the humble damson.

Sizergh - Sizergh Castle contains some of the finest Elizabethan carved overmantels in the country, 14thC solar tower with original fireplaces, floors and windows. The 15thC great hall and other later additions contain English and French furniture, silver, china and Jacobite relics.

Oxenholme - This railway station is the gateway to the South Lakes. Kendal Town is only a short 10 minute walk from the station, whilst Trans-Penine trains also run services to Burneside, Staveley and Windermere. Placed on the West coast mainline, the station is serviced well from Glasgow and London.

Did you know?

Kendal Mint Cake
Is known for its high-energy giving qualities and is much in demand by outdoor explorers. The ‘cake' is made of sugar, with peppermint flavouring.
Kendal Museum
One of the oldest museums in the UK with fascinating displays on the natural history, geology and archaeology of the Kendal area.
Kendal Castle
Built around 1200, the castle was a home and administrative centre for the barons of Kendal. The Parr family held the barony in the mid-15th century but after 1483 it slowly fell into ruins. Today, only parts of the castle wall and a tower survive above ground, with two vaulted cellars under the Hall Block. An interactive display on the castle and its occupants can be seen at Kendal Museum.
George Romney (1734 - 1802)
Well-known English portrait painter of the 18th century, who was born at Dalton-in-Furness but served his apprenticeship in Kendal.
Postman Pat
The Postman Pat series of children’s books were created by John Cunliffe who lived in Kendal. Postman Pat’s adventures were based in nearby Kentmere and Longsleddale.
Kendal Green
Many different woollen cloths were made in Kendal but the most famous is ‘Kendal Green', a hardwearing cloth. Shakespeare refers to ‘Kendal green' in Henry IV (Part I).
A Festival Town
Kendal is more than a market town on the edge of the Lakes, there’s always events and festivals taking place in Kendal – whatever the weather.
Quaker Tapestry Museum
A stunning collection of tapestry created over 15 years and illustrating the history of Quakerism from the 17th century right through to today.

Kendal - Gateway to The Lakes

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Art Explorers

Address

Brewery Arts, 122A Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Art Explorers is a creative art and craft class for young people in the home education community. The class is a great way to expand participants' imaginations, develop new skills and experiment with lots of different materials and techniques.
Tue…

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Brigid Mae Power

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Doors 7.30pm | Tickets £14 | Malt Room Seated
Recognised as a purveyor of dreamier pop with folky leanings, Brigid Mae Power is set to release her new album this summer. 'Dream From The Deep Well' is a departure; a unique marriage of traditional…

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Nick Cope's Family Show

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Starts 11am and 2pm | Tickets £13.50 | Theatre | Age Guidance 2+ yrs
Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years, he performs with his guitar and animations to sell-out…

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Wishbone Ash

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Tickets £27 | Theatre
With 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of the iconic album Live Dates, this is a rare opportunity to hear the legendary Wishbone Ash performing their biggest-selling album in its entirety. The band will also perform songs from…

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Sugarcraft Flowers

Address

The Quaker Tapestry Museum, Friends meeting house, Stramongate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4BH

Telephone
01539722975

nancy@quaker-tapestry.co.uk

Stramongate, Kendal

This fun and absorbing new workshop offers a fantastic introduction to sugar work; making beautiful sugar flowers perfect for a homemade wedding or special birthday cake.
The class is suitable for beginners who have never worked with sugar…

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Jesca Hoop

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

California-born but now based in Manchester, Jesca Hoop is a musician's musician. Discovered by Tom Waits, and brought on tour by Peter Gabriel to sing in his band, it was a phone call from Elbow's Guy Garvey that saw her move to the UK.
Order of…

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Warriner's Wood

Address

Brigsteer Road, Kendal, Cumbria

website@cumbriatourism.org

Kendal

From the Brigsteer Road west of Kendal. Hire a bike or hike from Kendal - parking is limited.

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Clearwater Creedence Revival

Address

Brewery Arts, 122A Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Doors 7.30pm | Tickets £23 | Malt Room Standing
Selling out at venues all over the world, Clearwater Creedence Revival feature road-hardened players who, collectively have performed with – Stax legend Steve Cropper, Big Country, Denny Laine (Wings,…

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Alexander's Pub at Castle Green Hotel

Address

The Castle Green Hotel in Kendal, Castle Green Lane, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 6RG

Telephone
01539 734000

reception@castlegreen.co.uk

Kendal

Alexander's Pub at Castle Green is currently closed until further notice.

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Skyline Walking Holidays

Address

84 WIndermere Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 5EZ

Telephone
07823 781207

info@skylinewalking.co.uk

Kendal

DAY HIKES: Hire your own qualified and experienced walking guide to look after you and your party: stay safe, take the best routes, and never miss a great view or hidden gem. Guided days are from £160 per party.
WALKING HOLIDAYS: Skyline offers…

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Quaker Tapestry Museum

Address

Friends Meeting House, Stramongate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4BH

Telephone
01539 722975

info@quaker-tapestry.co.uk

Kendal

A masterpiece of storytelling; 350 years of social history and a celebration of life, revolutions and remarkable people....made by 4,000 people. Facilities: Gift Shop, Cafe, Audio guides, Films, Interactive Displays, Children's Activities.

Tourism For All

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188 reviews
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Brewery Youth Theatre

Address

Brewery Arts, 122A Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Thu 27 Apr to Thu 13 Jul | 7-9pm | £75 (10 wks)| 15-19 yrs
Brewery Arts' flagship youth theatre company, Brewery Youth Theatre is perfect for young people who are passionate about theatre and performing, committed to productions, and looking to…

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Outdoor Adventure around Kendal with Adventure North West

Address

Various locations throughout Cumbria

Telephone
077959 17171

info@adventurenorthwest.co.uk

Our private activity sessions include ghyll scrambling, canyoning, abseiling, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, SUP boarding, archery, team building, raft building, bushcraft, and hill walking. We offer private group bookings in South Lakes Cumbria,…

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
43 reviews
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Sea Glass Silver Jewellery workshop at Cowshed Creative

Address

Cowshed Creative, Browfoot Farm, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA89JQ

Telephone
01539821210

info@cowshedcreative.co.uk

Staveley, Kendal

Transform and recycle subtle coloured pieces of Sea glass into jewellery that is perfect for summer. On this workshop you will learn to use a range of tools and develop jewellery making skills, working with sterling silver alongside your sea glass,…

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The Sleeping Beauty – The Royal Ballet

Address

Brewery Arts, 122A Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Stage on Screen | (12A) | 205 minutes
The Sleeping Beauty holds a very special place in The Royal Ballet's heart and history. It was the first performance given by the Company when the Royal Opera House reopened at Covent Garden in 1946 after World…

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Jah Wobble & The Invaders Of The Heart

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Tickets £22.50 | Malt Room Standing
Combining global music, reggae, fusion and punk influences, Jah Wobble has entranced the world with his hypnotic bass riffs for over four decades and has become one of Britain's most influential and distinct bass…

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Jason Byrne: The Ironic Bionic Man

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Tickets £25 | Extended Theatre | Age Guidance 14+
Jason Byrne is returning to Brewery Arts following a sell-out performance at the venue in 2022, this time with brand-new material for The Ironic Bionic Man.
"We can rebuild him! Jason is,…

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Adventure Club: Berg

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Cinema | (12A) | 79 minutes
Berg follows the stories of the stones, rocks and peaks of a vast mountain landscape.
Stark black and white images and a minimalistic ambient soundtrack draw the viewer into a vibrant, cinematic experience. Just…

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Roger Waters - This Is Not A Drill - Live From Prague

Address

Brewery Arts, 122a Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE

Telephone
01539 725133

sales@breweryarts.co.uk

Kendal

Cinema | (15) | 165 minutes
For one night only, Roger Waters, the creative force behind the golden years of Pink Floyd, presents his first Farewell Tour, "This Is Not A Drill", Live from Prague, in cinemas around the world. This cinematic…

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Alternative Afternoon Tea at The Wild Boar

Address

The Wild Boar Inn, Grill & Smokehouse, Crook Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3NF

Telephone
015394 45225

reservations.wildboar@englishlakes.co.uk

Windermere

This robust offering includes a range of miniature mighty flavoursome savoury delights and, of course, our notorious pork scratchings with homemade Bramley Apple Sauce.

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