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Culture in South Lakes - Kendal

Known locally as the ‘Auld Grey Town’ due to the distinctive limestone used in many of its historic buildings, Kendal is steeped in heritage and packed with cultural treasures.

Kendal’s medieval roots are still visible today - the town grew up 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 and shearing as Kendal became a major centre for the wool trade. Today some of the town’s oldest buildings have been revitalised as art galleries, museums and creative hubs – celebrating world class art, music and theatre.

Discover more of the town’s social history with a visit to Kendal Museum on Station Road and enjoy a contemporary art exhibition in its People’s Gallery. The Museum and Gallery are open Thursday to Saturday 9.30am to 4.30pm.

South Lakeland has many connections with George Fox, who was the founder of the Quaker movement. The historic Kendal Friends Meeting House on Stramongate is now home to the Quaker Tapestry Museum, which houses an internationally renowned tapestry project featuring 77 panels telling the story of Quakers through the ages.

Reopening on 20^th May 2023 following renovation work, Abbot Hall is one of Britain’s preeminent small art galleries, set in a beautifully restored Grade I-listed Georgian building overlooking the River Kent. The gallery holds an exceptional collection of 18^th - 21^st century fine art, and hosts a regular series of major temporary exhibitions.

In Abbot Hall’s riverside grounds, which are adjacent to Kendal’s beautiful Parish Church, you will also find a Barbara Hepworth sculpture.

An evening of comedy, cinema, live theatre or music is a great way to round off your day, so be sure to visit Brewery Arts. This dynamic arts centre is also home to an exhibition space, as well as a bar and restaurant – enjoy a meal before taking in a show.

There’s always something going on in South Lakeland: a packed year-round programme of events, theatre, exhibitions and festivals awaits. Visit our website to discover more.

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The Culture in South Lakes campaign is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a central pillar of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The fund aims to provide pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, and people and skills. For more information visit UKSPF website.