an introduction to kendal...

The ‘Auld Grey Town' of Kendal, handsomely built in limestone, is the focal hub for shopping and culture in Lakeland - home to the vibrant Brewery Arts Centre, two fine museums, a renowned art gallery and a plethora of sports and leisure facilities.

Historically, Kendal was one of the most important woollen textile centres in the country, producing ‘Kendal Green' and other ‘Kendal cottons' - its numerous yards were once filled with workshops processing cloth, leather and foodstuffs. Kendal was also a centre for shoe making, carpet and snuff manufacture, and synonymous with the production of Kendal Mint Cake - an essential prerequisite for today's explorers and mountaineers.

The pleasing mix of traditional shops, modern shopping areas and bustling markets provides a friendly and varied shopping environment. For eating out there is a choice of cosy tearooms, pavement cafes, traditional pubs or stylish restaurants serving international cuisine.

The town is well served with public transport. A rail link connects with the main West Coast line at Oxenholme and with Windermere in the heart of the Lakes. Buses depart frequently to all parts of the Lake District and further afield, and if arriving by car, the town is just 10 minutes from the M6 (junctions 36 or 37).

Outside Kendal, the quiet villages of Sedgwick, Natland, Old and New Hutton await discovery in the surrounding rolling countryside. To the north, Burneside is home to James Cropper plc, continuing a tradition of paper-making in the area since the mid-18th century. Helsington Barrows and Scout Scar are popular walking areas, forming the top of a limestone scarp edge with fantastic views over the Lyth Valley. Historic Sizergh Castle and Levens Hall are within easy reach, as is the beauty of the central Lake District - a mere 20 minutes drive away.