2026 Kendal Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

📅 Itinerary Day1：checked into our room, walked into town and ate at La Luna Italian restaurant. Day2: visited many of the local public establishments and loved the individual shops, plenty of antique and charity shops too. Evening with Adam Frost at Westmoreland centre. Day3: Breakfast and pack 🏨 Accommodation Travel Lodge Kendal town centre (perfect location for all our activities (car parked up all wkend) 🍴 Food Recommendations The Shakespeare and La Luna 📌 Tips Park the car and walk up the high street, little market and lots and lots of 1600’s buildings to see.

☑️ Kendal serves as the gateway to the Lake District. Approximately 2.5 hours by train from Edinburgh Approximately 4 hours by train from London Instead of heading straight to popular Lake District destinations like Windermere after passing through Kendal, take some time to explore this charming town. Though quieter and less crowded with tourists, Kendal boasts attractions such as hotels repurposed from historic buildings and the medieval Kendal Parish Church, reflecting its prosperous past in the wool industry. During the cooler hours of morning and evening, the mist rising from the River Kent that flows through the town creates a magical and picturesque scene.

#mytraveldiary Kendal Castle, Cumbria, is a captivating site that offers a glimpse into England’s medieval past. Perched on a hillside overlooking the town of Kendal, the castle provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Though now a romantic ruin, visitors can wander through the remnants of towers, walls, and courtyards, imagining the life of the Parr family who once lived there. The castle grounds are perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography, especially during sunset when the landscape glows in golden light. Informative signage helps visitors understand the history and significance of the site. With its blend of historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and tranquil atmosphere, Kendal Castle in Cumbria offers an enriching and memorable experience for families, history enthusiasts, and casual explorers alike.

20 minutes walk from Kendal railway station to the top into the fields. You will also find sheep's in fields as well as find a good viewpoint. 360 view of Kendal ♥️#travel #naturalwonders #kendal #lakedistrict #nature #nature_photography #meadows

#mytraveldiary Levens Hall & Garden in Cumbria is a remarkable country estate celebrated for its historic architecture and world renowned gardens. The Elizabethan manor house features period interiors, grand halls, and fascinating collections that offer insight into centuries of English heritage. Surrounding the hall, the gardens are a true highlight, with intricately designed topiary, vibrant flowerbeds, and winding pathways that reveal surprises at every turn. Seasonal blooms and carefully maintained lawns create a colorful and serene environment, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography. Visitors can also enjoy woodland areas, ornamental ponds, and hidden garden corners that add a sense of discovery. With its combination of history, artistry, and natural beauty, Levens Hall & Garden provides an engaging and relaxing experience, making it a must visit destination for those exploring the charm and heritage of Cumbria.

We wanted to get away from the city for a quick break so headed up to the Lake District. At Euston we took the Avanti train to Oxenholme. bought standard class tickets but upgraded to first class using an app called SeatFrog for just £35! We picked to stay in Kendal which is a nice small town but cheaper than more central lakes locations. The bus to windermere takes just 20 minutes and is usually open top. After a good night sleep we headed out to explore the lakes. We took the open top 599 bus to Grasmere (about 1hr). Here there is lots of cute little shops and cafes. The Grasmere Tea Garden is a great place for a coffee looking over the river. There is also the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop which is worth a look. Back on the bus we headed for Ambleside. After browsing the shops we walked to the pier and took a trip on Lake Windermere to Bowness. Beautiful scenery and very relaxing. At Bowness there is loads of shops, cafes, restaurants, the Peter Rabbit Exhibition and lots of places you can hire a boat and cruise out on the lake yourself. After too much shopping (and some local ice cream!), we headed back to Kendal for dinner. To get around the lakes we bought a Bus & Boat day ticket from the bus driver. This was £20 for adults and gives all day travel across the lake district and a single journey on the Windermere Lake Cruises boat. Well worth it.

We stayed in Yha windermere hostel and it was worth it, Tip1. Buses comes after 1-2 hour, plan it before head and few days doesnt run as well. Tip2. Around 5 most places are closed, start early Tip3. If you are with elders or kids and doesnt have car than opt for lakeside taxis app and it was convenient or if alone you can get cycle from the station and keep your luggage around the area Tip4. Dont forget to visit gingermere for ginger bread, only they make it. Tip5. Must try sticky toffee pudding, we did at amberside. Tip6. You should try elderflower sparkling water, i personally liked it.

The name Kirkby Kendal originates from Old Norse and roughly translates as “village with a church in the valley of the River Kent”, nowadays simply called Kendal. Kendal is a beautiful English town right on the border with the Lake District National Park. It’s also very close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This makes it a great base to explore some of the most beautiful countryside in England. Kendal itself is a beautiful town and well worth exploring. #getgoing2025 #kendal #england

kendal was amazing

Just in the edge of the beautiful Lake District national park lies the regions only ‘town’ Kendal. Often a spot that a lot of visitors seeking adventure and views bypass but those who do chose to make a stop here a welcomed by a delightful historic high street full of independent shop and restaurants couple with a feel of times gone by. The place is well worth a stop on your next visit to the lakes #lakedistrict

Looking for a English town with a true Christmas feel full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and mountains? Then Kendal is your answer, the town on the edge of the Lake District national park is the perfect spot to spend that winters afternoon or to get some of those last minute gifts with plenty of events going on over the festive season #magicalxmastrip #countryside #kendal #christmas

Went on a horrible rainy day but nothing could dampen the beauty of this house!

Nice apps ever#Kendal

If you drive a long distance in the UK, you will definitely find a highway rest stop to take a short break! This time we went from Edinburgh to Manchester, and came to this rest stop at sunset 😍Super romantic! A large green meadow and a calm lake reflecting the clouds in the sky, the scenery is truly amazing! There are also small yellow flowers on the grass, and there are beautiful views from any angle! The most important thing is to go early, before sunset! ! ! Location: Roadchef Motorway Services Kendal LA8 0NW McDonald's is right next to the lake view. I suddenly feel that eating McDonald's can be very romantic. #Must-visit spots in the UK #BritishRoadRestStay #Kendal

The Lakes at Christmas! Great times on Windermere! Fab gourmet meals! 10/10. Let the train take the strain! Kendal as a base is great! Nip into Scotland too!