Kendal

Kendal is a lovely old market town situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, the English Lake District. Despite the superb country setting, Kendal is easily accessible and by rail or car and is also within 30 minutes drive of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, making it a perfect base for walkers and sightseers alike. The town merges the past with the present with a proud history alongside investment and development. This unique blend makes it one of the most popular destinations for visitors in the U.K.

For many years Kendal's importance was as a major wool town, even more important than West Yorkshire. The town was also a stopping off point for cattle drives from Scotland and grew famous for its market, which still continues today. Kendal remains an important town in this area and has much to offer today's traveller, with exceptional shopping, friendly people, many attractions and incredible scenery.

It is here in this wonderful town that you will find the delights of nature, even those not accustomed to walking for pleasure will discover the joy of it in this setting. The scenery, coupled with the abundance of wildlife and varied flora and fauna makes every moment full of surprises and discoveries. Outdoor pursuits are well served here with nature trails, walks, horse riding, cycle routes, fishing, golf and so much more all catered for.

Culture too is high up the list and the Abbot Hall Art Gallery is a good starting point. Open February to December, it is situated at the southern end of Kendal beside the Parish Church. Abbot Hall is one of Britain's finest small galleries and a wonderful place in which to see and enjoy exquisite art in the elegantly proportioned rooms of a grade 1 listed Georgian building. As well as an important British art collection which includes work by Ruskin, Turner, Romney, Scwitters, Ben Nicholson and Lucian Freud, there is an acclaimed and stimulating programme of high quality contemporary and historical exhibitions running throughout the year.

The Brewery Arts Centre too is in the centre of Kendal; set in delightful 18th century gardens, the Brewery has something for everyone. Offering the latest film releases to theatre, music, comedy, dance and literature events plus free art exhibitions. While you are here, enjoy a drink, snack or meal in the Green Room, Intro café-bar or Vats Bar; or on a fine day, outside on the terrace.

Founded in 1796, Kendal Museum is one of the oldest museums in the country. Collections include local archaeology, history, geology and a natural history collection from around the globe. The archaeology displays tell the story of man in Cumbria from prehistoric times to the present with local prehistoric, Roman and Viking objects. Also on display is a collection of original drawings and items belonging to the author, fell walker and one time honorary curator, Alfred Wainwright.

For those following the trail of historic houses, Levens Hall and Gardens offers a beautiful day out. Levens Hall is an Elizabethan mansion, home to the Bagot family. The hall houses one of the earliest English patchworks, which dates back to 1708, as well as beautifully embossed Cordova leather wall coverings. The hall also features fine panelling plasterwork and Jacobean furniture. The hall's world famous topiary garden was designed and constructed in 1694 and remains true to its original design. Lush, sculpted foliage and sweeping views to feast your eyes on.

Whatever your passion, Kendal has an attraction, shop, building or site to meet it. This is a land of contrast and a place where visitors will want to return to time and again.