Kendal-The Lakes Gateway

Kendal has had a long and varied history. There are signs of an early British settlement at Castle How and an important Roman station at Watercrook, where a Roman altar, now in the British Museum, was discovered.

Why Kendal-The Lakes Gateway? This old market town is often called the southern gateway to the Lake District.

As the millions of visitors to the Lake District approach this area of outstanding natural beauty, Kendal is a perfect place for your adventure.

Kendal is the main town in Cumbria’s South Lakeland District.

Old, grey, and green are adjectives mostly associated with describing Kendal.

Ever since Appleby, the old county town, was burned by the Scots in the fourteenth century, Kendal has been the largest place in Westmorland.

The town is historically known for its association with the wool trade, especially Kendal green cloth. Its importance is reflected in the town’s coat of arms and its Latin motto Pannus mihi panis (cloth is my bread.)

Kendal Bowmen were brave warriors known for their skill in battle. They wore “Kendal green,” a durable cloth that became their trademark. At the Battle of Flodden Field in 1513, they showcased their exceptional abilities, proving the English longbow’s dominance over the weapons of their enemies. Sir Walter Scott celebrated their bravery in a poem about the battle, and even Shakespeare referenced Kendal Green in his play “Henry VI, Part 1.

The first stagecoach from London to Kendal began running twice a week in 1763 and was pulled by six horses.

Kendal is largely built of traditional grey limestone and is known locally as the ‘Auld Grey Town’.

As a consequence, it is also commonly referred to as the gateway to the Lake District National Park.

At one time, Kendal’s yards were a unique architectural and planning feature of the town. There were about 150 yards leading off the main street, each slightly different.

Architect, Miles Thompson was born in Kendal in 1808. He began work for Francis and George Webster and took over the business in 1846.

He is particularly associated with the development of Collin Croft and houses on Beast Banks, Kendal, where the figure (below) is on the gable of No. 21 of a man holding an architect’s drawing. It was put there by Miles’s brother Robert.

Town Hall

Kendal Town Hall can be seen from most parts of the town, with its clock tower particularly visible.

It is on the site of White Hall, also known as Leaden or Leather Hall, which was once used as a cloth exchange for the cloth trade of Kendal.

During the Ice Age, massive boulders were carried down from the fells and scattered across the valleys. One notable example is the ‘Ca Stone,’ a glacial erratic now located outside Kendal Town Hall.

This historic stone was once used by the Kendal town crier to read proclamations. Originally positioned at the Market Hall, it was moved to its current spot outside the Town Hall in 1897, where it remains a unique piece of local history.

Kendal also occupies a hallowed place in the hearts of many walkers.

In fact, the guidebook writer, Alfred Wainwright, lived in the town for many years.

Another local author was John Cunliffe, who was the author of the famous TV children’s stories about Postman Pat. John lived at 10, Greenside, Kendal, where he researched for the series and imagined Mrs Goggins sitting behind the Post Office counter nearby.

Around the world, walkers will know Kendal due to it being the home of the peppermint treat – Kendal Mint Cake.

Sugar, glucose, water and peppermint oil are usually the only ingredients; these are heated to 113 degrees Celsius and stirred, then poured into moulds.

Kendal Mint Cake makes it an ideal energy booster when out walking the fells of Lakeland.

But Kendal is more than just its mint cake: It is an ideal base to explore the southern Lakes with some intriguing galleries and an arts centre to explore.

The entrance to the Market Place from Branthwaite Brow used to be narrow and very steep. Between 1851 and 1853, the street was made wider. They demolished the buildings on one side and put up new shops with cast-iron fronts. Even though the street was updated, the original cobblestones are still there.

The chocolate shop on the corner has the year 1657 on it, which is when chocolate was first sold in England, starting in London.

The New Shambles

The New Shambles in Kendal is a charming and historic street that reflects the town’s rich heritage.

Located in the heart of Kendal, Cumbria, this picturesque area was once a bustling marketplace where butchers and traders sold their goods. The name “Shambles” originates from the Old English word fleshammels (meaning “flesh shelves”), referring to the meat benches that once lined such streets.

Though smaller than the famous Shambles in York, Kendal’s New Shambles retains a similar medieval character, with narrow cobbled lanes and traditional stone buildings that evoke a bygone era.

Today, the New Shambles is a vibrant part of Kendal, housing a mix of independent shops, cafes, and galleries.

Visitors can explore unique boutiques, enjoy locally sourced food, or simply soak in the historic atmosphere. The street’s preserved architecture—featuring overhanging timber-framed buildings and quaint alleyways—makes it a favourite for photographers and history enthusiasts.

Just a short walk from Kendal Castle and the River Kent, the New Shambles remains a delightful reminder of the town’s medieval past while serving as a lively hub for modern-day shoppers and tourists.

Stagecoach

The first stagecoach from London to Kendal began running twice a week in 1763. It was drawn by six horses, taking three days on the journey.

Named the ‘flying machine’ it travelled at an average of six miles an hour, and the fare was three pounds.

The King’s Arms was its starting point and destination in Kendal, an old posting inn that took over the role of the White Lion.

The town stands by the side of the River Kent, which takes its water from nearby Kentmere, Longsleddale and Shap.

Incidentally, the Kent is England’s fastest-flowing river.

As the Kent flows through this picturesque South Lakes town, flowing under a total of eight bridges, it is hard to imagine that the waters will soon, in just over 20 miles, enter Morecambe Bay at the Kent estuary.

Miller Bridge Kendal

The original wooden bridge connecting the town and the castle corn mill was repeatedly carried away by floods until 1743, when it was rebuilt entirely in stone.

The present bridge was designed by the architect Francis Webster for the new canal, where the canal head basin included covered wharves, warehouses, stables
and workers’ cottages. He also designed the bridge over Castle Mill head-race, the house seen opposite the bridge (originally the offices and showrooms of a marble polishing mill).

The foundation stone was laid in May 1818; the bridge opened in November 1818, and the canal was
operating by June 1819.

Gooseholme Bridge

In October 2022, the new £2 million Gooseholme Bridge, crossing the River Kent, was opened. The previous bridge was destroyed by Storm Desmond in 2015.

The single-span bridge is fully accessible to all bridge users, providing shared access for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users.

On the east bank of the river are the remains of Kendal Castle.

In 1543, the castle was in the ownership of Thomas Parr, father of Katherine Parr, one of the wives of Henry VIII.

Brewery Arts Centre

For anyone interested in the arts, The Brewery Arts is Cumbria’s top spot for arts and entertainment. Located in Kendal, it offers a range of experiences, including movies, live music, theatre, festivals, exhibitions, creative learning, and delicious food and drinks.

Whether you’re into star-studded live performances, enchanting family theatre shows, blockbuster films, international festivals, or just enjoying a tasty meal with friends, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable visit.

The Brewery Arts is open from Tuesday to Saturday, starting at 11 am, and on Sundays, it opens for the first cinema screening.

Kendal Library

Built from warm red sandstone and designed by local architect T.F. Pennington, Kendal Carnegie Library opened its doors on March 20, 1909, officially inaugurated by the town’s mayor, Jay Banks. Its striking Edwardian façade and traditional stonework make it instantly recognizable as you explore Kendal’s charming town centre, filled with history and character.

Funded through a generous £5,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie, the famous Scottish-American philanthropist who financed more than 2,500 libraries worldwide, the building replaced Kendal’s smaller public library of 1855. Today, the Carnegie Public Library continues that legacy of community, education, and access for all.

Explore a Living Heritage

Inside, Kendal Library offers far more than its beautiful architecture. It houses an extensive collection of books and digital resources, alongside free Wi-Fi, computer access, and printing facilities. For those researching local history or family heritage, the library’s Local Studies Collection is a treasure trove, featuring parish records, historic maps, old newspapers, and rare photographs documenting Kendal’s past.

The library plays an active role in Kendal’s cultural life, hosting reading groups, author events, and skill-building workshops throughout the year. Visitors can also find dedicated health and wellbeing resources, including dementia support bags, autism-friendly materials, and mental health reading lists. With accessible facilities, a friendly children’s area, and welcoming staff, Kendal Library remains an inclusive space for people of all ages.

What to Look For When You Visit

As you wander around, keep an eye out for some of the building’s architectural and historic highlights:

The Kendal Coat of Arms set into the lobby floor – a proud symbol of the town’s heritage.
The carved stone panel above the entrance reading “Carnegie Library” – an enduring mark of its origin.
The commemorative plaque installed by the Kendal Civic Society – sharing the inspiring story of Andrew Carnegie and his global library legacy.

Open six days a week, Kendal Carnegie Library stands as a testament to the town’s enduring love of learning and community spirit. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty or its modern amenities, it’s a must-visit stop on your Lake District adventure.

As a consequence of the above, Kendal is named one of the best 50 towns in the UK to live.

Furthermore, with a combination of a thriving town, a strong local economy, excellent schools and the Lakes landscape right on its doorstep, Kendal has a winning formula and a brilliant place to live and work.

Conclusion

To conclude, the ‘Auld Grey Town’ of Kendal is 20 minutes away by car from Lothlorien Holiday Cottage in Kents Bank, Grange-over-Sands.

Enquire here or ring 07785944194 for your perfect holiday cottage in the Lake District.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Kendal-The Lakes Gateway

1) What is Kendal known for?

Kendal is famous for its historic market town charm, the stunning Kendal Castle ruins, and as the home of Kendal Mint Cake, a sweet treat loved by walkers and climbers.

2) Why is Kendal called “The Auld Grey Town”?

Kendal’s nickname, “The Auld Grey Town,” comes from the traditional grey limestone used in its buildings, giving the town its unique look and character.

3) What is Kendal’s history in the wool trade?

In the past, Kendal was a major wool production centre, creating tough fabrics like “Kendal Green.” This cloth became famous across England and was even worn by archers at historic battles.

4) Can you visit Kendal Castle?

Yes, Kendal Castle is open to the public! Visitors can wander the atmospheric ruins, which sit on a hill with fantastic views over the town and the surrounding countryside.

5) What events and attractions can you find in Kendal?

Kendal hosts lively markets, festivals, and art events year-round. The town is also a gateway to the Lake District, making it popular for outdoor adventures, history tours, and shopping in unique independent shops.