Location: Kendal
Top Things to do in Kendal
10 Things to Do in Kendal That You Shouldn't Miss
Kendal /ˈkɛndəl/, anciently known as Kirkby in Kendal or Kirkby Kendal, is a market town and civil parish within the South Lakeland District of Cumbria, England. Historically in Westmorland, it is situated about 8 miles (13 km) south-east of Windermere, 19 miles (31 km) north of Lancaster, 23 miles (37 km) north-east of Barrow-in-Furness and 38 miles (61 km) north-west of Skipton. The town lies in the valley or "dale" of the River Kent, from which it derives its name, and has a total resident population of 28,586, making it the third largest settlement in Cumbria behind Carlisle and Barrow-in-Furness.
Restaurants in Kendal
1. Levens Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 412 reviews
Levens Hall is an Elizabethan historic house and garden, located at the entrance to the Lake District in the county of Cumbria.
Reviewed By Natasha D - Southampton, England, United Kingdom
I am not sure what I was expecting, the website makes it look as though the topiary goes on for miles, it's not all that large. Not saying it's not impressive, it is a lovely garden, but so expensive to get in. I paid the extra to get into the house and didn't even have my ticket checked and the house I think we walked round in 30 mins anyway. We were travelling on our way to somewhere, I would have been very dissapointed if I had made a special journey. Staff were all very polite but I wouldn't bother wasting your money. Beaulie down here has such an impressive house this felt very underwhelming with things in there just for the sake of it. I know they're on the opposite side of the country but Arundel castle and Beaulie etc. is a lot more impressive.
2. Hawkshead Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 480 reviews
The Beer Hall is the Hawkshead Brewery tap, but within it are many things: visitors' centre, specialist international beer shop, function room, conference room and The Beer Kitchen providing the perfect food to complement the beer - our "Beer Tapas." The Beer Hall is a showcase for real ale and has a Cask Marque award for serving “the perfect pint”.
Reviewed By davival - Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Myself and my two sons enjoyed a guided tour at Hawkshead brewery recently. Our host, David, was very knowledgeable about the brewing process and his enthusiasm for his job shone through. After a short video presentation, and an opportunity to taste various types of malted barley, then experience the various flavours of different hops, we were taken through to the brewery to see every stage of the brewing process. Very interesting, and there was even a surprising piece of information about what the brewery do, when the beer is in the fermentation vessels, but you'll have to go on the tour to find out what it is! A great tour which ended with two halves of beer, from their vast selection, in the spacious bar area.
3. Lakeland Maze Farm Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 192 reviews
A fun day out for all the family with plenty to do rain or shine. Maize Mazes open july-september and Farm Park open weekends easter- end of September. Soft play, Go Karts, Ferrets, Farm Quiz, Tractor Rides, Trampolines, Bouncy Slide, Farm Animal barn, Groom the pony, and a small animal pet barn, Bale Maze, Indoor Lego, Outdoor Play Area, Tractor Barn, Farm Quiz, and Seasonal activities as well. We also provide kids parties.
Reviewed By mrsbaz - Merseyside
Stumbled across this park by accident (picked up a flyer) and what a find. Had a great day out. My daughter loved holding the animals and ferret walking. We had great fun in the maze even though it was frustrating at times going round in circles. Will definitely visit again when in the area
4. Sizergh Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By johnhouston2 - Knaresborough, United Kingdom
Although the house was closed at the time of our visit, we were able to stroll around the lovely Gardens.
This was our first visit here, and I thought that the design of the Gardens is very good indeed. We particularly liked the expansive rock garden area, with its pathways through the trees, and the "stumpery", which was a first for us. Clearly there were few flowers in bloom at this time of the year, but we were so impressed by the layout that we are keen to return.
Whilst here we also took advantage of the cafe, which is a good size and also has plenty of outdoor Seating. The shop is also large and bright.
5. Brewery Arts Centre
Overall Ratings
4 based on 341 reviews
Known nationally as a centre for world-class theatre, music, art and events, the Brewery has a 450 capacity music venue, three cinemas, two visual arts galleries, a drama studio, meeting rooms, a recently refurbished Grainstore restaurant, Warehouse Café, the famous Vats Bar, and a fantastic theatre Seating 200.
Reviewed By ReallyBadHat
Attending the Mountain Film Festival, this is the hub, where arrangements, the tented village, organisers and many events occur.
A sizeable venue, able to simultaneously support a mix of activities and events along with providing food and a decent area to drink, relax and chat
A great resource for the town
6. Kendal Castle
Overall Ratings
4 based on 369 reviews
Reviewed By johnhouston2 - Knaresborough, United Kingdom
I note a previous reviewer suggest that there's not much left of these ruins, and whereas I will concede that this is no Windsor or Edinburgh with furnished rooms to view, there is more than enough of the castle walls to give a good picture of what this rugged ruin would have looked like.
Access is by a reasonably steep walk up a large grassy area, but it is a pleasant place and well worth a stroll on a nice day.
7. The Quaker Tapestry Exhibition Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 138 reviews
Reviewed By johnhouston2 - Knaresborough, United Kingdom
We found our visit to the Quaker Tapestry Exhibition to be both enjoyable and informative. Like most non-Quakers I expect, we were completely ignorant about the movement, and in addition to viewing the exhibition we thoroughly enjoyed our chat with the lovely woman on the...MoreThank you for your review - it is good to know you enjoyed your experience and uncovered some major discoveries about the Quakers. I will pass on your lovely comments to the volunteers on duty in the exhibition. Best wishes Bridget
8. Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 108 reviews
Immerse yourself in Lake District History at the Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry. Inside you can explore a typical Victorian farmers home from the food in the kitchen, to the elegance of the parlour. Other galleries tell the story of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the industrial history of this beautiful part of the world. Here you can discover the Lake District’s past in farming, mining, tanning, and many other ways that people have made a living amongst the fells. The Museum allows you to discover how people have lived in the Lake District and how the unique landscape has shaped their lives. You can also find out about Arthur Ransome, one of the Lake District’s most famous authors, and colourful characters. And why not stroll down the Victorian high street before you go to find out about the toys, food, and even medicines of the past. The Museum of Lakeland life is a must see for anyone interested in the history of this beautiful area, and with changing Exhibitions looking at all aspects of Lakeland Life there will always be something new to discover.
Reviewed By Wary1 - Canterbury, United Kingdom
The Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry at Kendal is full of unfussy exhibits of domestic scale. One gets a real sense of the life and possessions typical of the locality with none of the remoteness larger museums sometimes engender. This gives a real sense...MoreHi, Thanks for leaving a review! I am pleased to hear that you found the museum so interesting and hope that we will see you again soon!
9. Abbot Hall Art Gallery
Overall Ratings
4 based on 133 reviews
Winner of the Art Gallery of the Year Cumbria Life Culture Awards 2017, Abbot Hall Art Gallery is a Grade 1 listed building with a national reputation for showing contemporary and historical works. Conveniently located in the town centre, Abbot Hall enjoys a pretty riverside setting. Just a stone’s throw from leafy Abbot Hall Park and Kendal Parish Church, it makes for an inspiring day out for all. On permanent display in the period Georgian rooms is a selection of works by Cumbrian born artist George Romney (1734-1802), one of the greatest of all eighteenth-century portrait painters. The centre piece is what many perceive to be his masterpiece, the beautiful The Gower Family: The Children of Granville, 2nd Earl Gower (1776-7). Also on show is The Great Picture which is an impressive triptych commissioned by Lady Anne Clifford (1590-1678) in 1646. It depicts the story of her life-long struggle for, and ultimately succession to, the family inheritance.
Reviewed By loopy101 - Ipswich, United Kingdom
Whilst we visited they were showing a collection of art from the Chris Ingram portfolio. Really great British art on show, very interesting and varied. Very helpful curators too. Certainly worth stopping by on a ralny afternoon.
There's also a good tea room with amazing cake.
10. Kendal Parish Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By Travelartgolf - Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
This is a breath taking place. We were here on a day just before a wedding commenced. The building itself is fascinating on the outside. Indoors with the stained glass and five aisles across it becomes magical.
We viewed windows given over centuries in memory of loved ones. There is a roll near the entrance of each vicar of the parish and the name of the monarch he served from 12th century to the present.
We gave a donation as there is no fee. It is an active and inspiring place in the community. Located not far from the river near the oldest part of town.
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