Kendal

What does Kendal offer?

Discover the charming market town of Kendal, nestled in the picturesque South Lakeland district of Cumbria. Known as the "Gateway to the Lake District", Kendal offers the perfect blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and explore the 18th-century architecture, while enjoying the spectacular backdrop of the surrounding fells and the River Kent. Kendal boasts an array of attractions catering to a variety of interests. Delve into the town's fascinating past at the Kendal Museum or the Castle Dairy, one of England's oldest continuously inhabited houses. For art enthusiasts, the Abbot Hall Art Gallery showcases an impressive array of British and European art. Outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice, with numerous walking and cycling routes available to explore the beautiful countryside. Don't forget to sample the famous Kendal Mint Cake, a local delight that has fuelled generations of adventurers.

Top attractions in Kendal

1. Kendal Castle: Explore the historic ruins of this 12th-century fortress, once home to the Barons of Kendal, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

2. Abbot Hall Art Gallery: Admire an impressive collection of 18th- to 21st-century British art in a beautifully restored Georgian mansion, set within serene riverside gardens.

3. The Quaker Tapestry Museum: Delve into the fascinating stories of the Quaker movement through a series of 77 vibrant embroidered panels, housed in a characterful Georgian building.

4. The Brewery Arts Centre: Experience a diverse programme of live performances, cinema screenings, workshops, and exhibitions in this thriving cultural hub, housed in a historic brewery building.

5. Serpentine Woods: Wander through this picturesque woodland, complete with a charming sculpture trail, and enjoy the tranquillity of nature just a stone's throw away from the bustling town centre.

Best areas to live in Kendal

1. Ash Meadow: Ash Meadow is a popular residential area in Kendal, known for its beautiful Victorian homes and close proximity to the town centre. With a variety of local amenities, such as shops, schools, and parks, this area offers a perfect blend of convenience and charm.

2. Castle Green Lane: Nestled beneath Kendal Castle, this picturesque lane boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and offers easy access to the town centre, making it a prime location for families and professionals alike.

3. Greenside: Located on the eastern edge of Kendal, Greenside is a peaceful, leafy suburb that offers a perfect retreat from the bustling town centre. With excellent schools, parks, and local shops nearby, it is an ideal area for families seeking a quieter lifestyle.

4. Heron Hill: This sought-after area of Kendal is known for its excellent primary school, spacious homes with gardens, and a strong sense of community. Just a short walk from the town centre, Heron Hill offers a well-balanced mix of town and country living.

5. High Tenterfell: High Tenterfell is a popular residential area situated on the outskirts of Kendal, offering a peaceful setting with easy access to the town centre and the beautiful Lake District National Park. With a range of local amenities and picturesque countryside on its doorstep, High Tenterfell is an ideal location for those seeking a blend of urban and rural living.

6. Kirkbarrow: This well-established residential neighbourhood is located within walking distance of Kendal town centre, offering an array of shops, schools, and leisure facilities. Kirkbarrow is popular among families and professionals due to its convenient location and attractive homes.

7. Oxenholme: Located to the south of Kendal, Oxenholme is a small, picturesque village that offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town centre. With its own railway station and easy access to the M6 motorway, Oxenholme is perfect for those seeking a more rural lifestyle while still enjoying excellent transport links.

8. Serpentine Road: This charming street is situated in the heart of Kendal, offering a mix of characterful period properties and modern homes. With the town centre, local schools, and parks all within easy reach, Serpentine Road is an ideal location for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful place to call home.

9. Underley Hill: Underley Hill is a prestigious residential area located on the outskirts of Kendal, offering a mix of luxury homes and elegant period properties. With stunning countryside views and easy access to the town centre, Underley Hill is a highly desirable location for those seeking an exclusive, tranquil setting.

Best things about living in Kendal

1. Stunning Natural Beauty: Kendal, located in South Lakeland, boasts astonishing landscapes and rich wildlife, offering residents a serene environment to live in. With the Lake District National Park nearby, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic walks, cycling, and a variety of water sports.

2. Rich Cultural Heritage: Kendal is steeped in history, with numerous ancient buildings and fascinating museums. Visit the well-preserved Kendal Castle, explore the Quaker Tapestry Museum, or attend a performance at the Brewery Arts Centre to experience the town's unique charm.

3. Thriving Local Economy: Kendal offers various employment opportunities, with thriving industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and creative arts. The town also hosts a range of independent shops, cafés, and markets, promoting a strong sense of community and supporting local businesses.

4. Excellent Educational Institutions: Families living in Kendal have access to several high-quality schools, including highly-regarded primary, secondary, and further education institutions. There are also numerous extracurricular activities and community-based programmes for young people to become involved in.

5. Convenient Transport Links: Kendal benefits from excellent road and rail links, providing easy access to larger cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Glasgow. This connectivity makes it an ideal base for commuters, as well as those who enjoy exploring the wider region on weekends and holidays.

Drawbacks to living in Kendal

1. Limited Job Opportunities: Kendal is a small town with a population of around 30,000, which means that job opportunities can be limited. Those seeking work in specialised fields or looking for a wide range of opportunities may need to look further afield or consider commuting to neighbouring towns and cities.

2. High Cost of Living: The South Lakeland area, particularly Kendal, is known for its picturesque beauty and desirable location. As such, property prices and the general cost of living can be higher than in other areas of the UK. This may make it more challenging for individuals and families to find affordable housing or manage their expenses.

3. Limited Nightlife: While Kendal offers a range of pubs, restaurants and cultural events, its nightlife is relatively limited compared to larger cities such as Manchester or Liverpool. Those seeking a more vibrant and diverse nightlife may find Kendal's options somewhat lacking.

4. Public Transport: Although Kendal is well-connected by road and rail, public transport options within the town can be limited, particularly for those without a car. Bus services can be infrequent and may not cover all parts of the town, making it difficult for residents to access certain amenities or attend events without their own transport.

5. Tourist Crowds: Kendal's proximity to the Lake District National Park and its popularity as a gateway town means that it can become quite busy during peak tourist seasons. This influx of visitors can lead to increased traffic, crowded streets and limited parking, which may be frustrating for locals who are trying to go about their daily lives.

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