Known as the southern gateway to the Lake District, Kendal is a historic market town with a character all its own. Famed for its limestone buildings that give it the 'Auld Grey Town' nickname, its maze of atmospheric yards and alleys, and of course, the world-famous Kendal Mint Cake, it's a thriving cultural hub just a stone's throw from the fells.
Culture & Heritage
Start your visit with a walk up to the ruins of Kendal Castle, the birthplace of Katherine Parr, Henry VIII's last wife. The viewpoint offers a fantastic panorama of the town and the Lakeland fells beyond.
Kendal boasts a fantastic cultural scene, centred around the Brewery Arts Centre, which hosts live music, theatre, cinema, and art exhibitions. Nearby, the Abbot Hall Art Gallery is one of the region's finest, housed in a beautiful Grade I listed Georgian villa.
Food, Drink & Shopping
No trip to Kendal is complete without trying Kendal Mint Cake, the sugary energy bar that has fuelled mountaineers on Everest. You can buy it in almost every shop in town!
The town is a haven for shoppers. Explore the historic yards and you'll find a brilliant selection of independent boutiques, delis, and galleries. A lively market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, adding to the bustling atmosphere.
Getting There
By Car: Kendal is very easy to reach, located just a 10-minute drive from the M6 (Junction 36) via the A591/A590.
By Public Transport: Kendal has its own railway station, with a connecting service to Oxenholme Lake District station on the West Coast Main Line. Oxenholme has direct trains to London, Glasgow, Manchester, and other major cities. Regular bus services connect Kendal to Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick.
Walks from Kendal
Orrest Head
Just a short drive or bus ride from Kendal, the walk up Orrest Head from Windermere is a Lakeland classic. It was the very first fell Alfred Wainwright climbed, and the stunning panoramic view of Lake Windermere from the summit is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the fells.
Explore Orrest HeadTarn Hows
One of the most popular and accessible beauty spots in the Lake District. A gentle, circular path winds its way around this stunning man-made tarn, offering breathtaking views of the Langdale Pikes and surrounding woodlands. Perfect for families and wheelchair users.
Visit Tarn HowsSkelghyll Woods & Jenkin Crag
Starting from Ambleside, this beautiful woodland walk takes you through some of Britain's tallest trees in Skelghyll Woods before ascending to the fantastic viewpoint of Jenkin Crag, which offers a magnificent view over the full length of Lake Windermere.
Discover the Woods