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Described as, "The Auld Grey Town" because of it's limestone buildings, Kendal is the " Gateway to the Lakes," and home of the famous Kendal mint cake; some of which was carried to the summit of Everest on the 1953 expedition.
 Visitors to the Lake District quite often by-pass this friendly and welcoming town. In recent years, it has made huge strides toward establishing itself on the tourist map.
The traders of the community have united in all-out efforts to improve the image with eye-catching window displays, bright fresh paint and a new pedestrianised shopping area. Small specialised shops ply their trade in the olde-worlde narrow lanes and yards leading off the main street; and good food and drink is to be found in any of the large selection of cafes, restuarants and pubs.
 The Brewery Arts Centre restaurant and bar on Highgate is a comfortable venue and also provides a cinema and concert room. And to work-off any over-indulgence of mint cake or chocolate cake, the Leisure Centre on Burton Road will provide all the necessary means.
The 12th century castle stands on Castle Hill overlooking the town. It is mostly ruins, but from what remains, one can envisage it as it was several centuries ago when Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII was in residence. The grassed slopes beneath the ruins are a favourite place for people wishing an evening stroll and take in the extensive views.
 The Holy Trinity Church, easily visible from the castle, is Cumbria's largest parish church with a long and interesting history. One of the items on display is the very moving "the family of man" by Brazilian sculptress, Josephina de Vascancellos.
Many of you will be familiar with the books of Alfred Wainwright whose sketches and descriptions of his favourite walks have been sold in very large numbers. He was not born in the Lake District, but lived in and loved the lakes, mountains and fells for 50 years until his death in 1991. The Kendal Museum has dedicated a section to him, and shows a reconstruction of his office.
 The Quaker Tapestry, in the Friends Meeting House is an extraordinary piece of work. It was created by 4000 people over a period of 15 years from 15 different countries.
For those wishing to polish their climbing skills, the Lakeland Climbing Centre has an indoor wall plus a range of outdoor activities.
 Why not come and see the Kendal Gathering which occupies two weeks of late August/early September. It features shows and events in and around the area and culminating
in the finale known as the “Torchlight Procession” where brightly coloured floats and people take to the streets on the last evening.
This is but a few of the attractions and facilities in a town pushing to the forefront of "places to stay".
Kendal is no longer the "auld grey town", but a colourful lively spot to explore and enjoy. There are excellent road and rail links.
How to get there:
By rail: Oxenholme station, on the West Coast railway is some two miles away with a link to Kendal station.
By road: Situated on the A6, Kendal is only eight miles from J36 off the M6 motorway.
Kendal Tourist Information Links :
The Museum of Lakeland Life - Abbot Hall, Kendal.
Phone: +44 (0)1539 722464
Website: www.lakelandmuseum.org.uk
Kendal Museum -
Founded in 1796, Kendal Museum's fascinating collections include local archaeology, history, geology and a natural history collection from around the globe.
Phone: +44 (0)1539 721374
Website: www.kendalmuseum.org.uk
Levens Hall and Gardens - Steeped in history, the building dates from 1350, and the topiary gardens are world famous in their own right.
Website: http://www.levenshall.co.uk
Sizergh Castle and Gardens - Medieval house extended in Elizabethan times, with handsome gardens.
Phone: +44(0)15395 60951
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Paulo Giannis - Fine Mediterranean food & wine.
21a Stramongate, Kendal,Cumbria LA9 4BH
Phone: +44(0)1539 730290
Eastern Balti - Kendal's first Balti House, exquisite Indian cuisine, elegant surroundings, vegetarian menu, fully licensed, take away service.
Phone: +44 (0)1539 724074
Chang Thai Restaurant.
54 Stramongate, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4BD
Phone: +44 (0)1539 720387
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Kendal Leisure Centre - Swimming, Sauna, Fitness, Dry sports, Disability sports, Theatre and Concerts.
Phone: +44 (0)1539 729777
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Gateway Taxis - Courteous, prompt and reliable. Local, long distance and airport destinations.
Phone: +44(0)1539 725935
Castle Taxis - Long established Company offering 24 hour service. Distance no object.
Phone: +44 (0)1539 726233
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(C of E) St. George's Church - 3 Firbank, Sedbergh Road, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6EG
Phone: +44 (0)1539 720018
Website: www.kendalstgeorge.com
Email: office@kendalstgeorge.com
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