Tourist attractions in Kendal
The TV presenter and historian, David Starkey, is clearly disappointed that some of Kendal’s historical monuments have been overruled due to the need for jobs and economic development. He does acknowledge however that the Romans left us with an excellent example of a Roman camp besides the river Kent which has yet to be spoiled by “progress”, the Normans built two excellent castles and a church that is in reality just slightly smaller than York minster, i guess at the time this would have created accountancy vacancies in Cumbria in its own way, what the salary was we can't comment.
Kendal was the largest town in the County of Westmorland, before it became part of Cumbria. It was one of the country's main manufacturing towns from the 14th to the 19th Century, with many mills on the River Kent. The layout of the town is epitomized by the narrow lanes forking from the main street. It is less than a mile from the National Park boundary but is often missed by walkers heading into the park and has maintained a traditional feel in the town centre with residents shopping etc.
Tourist Attractions
Kendal Castle, late 12th Century, is now a ruin, but worth exploring. From here you will find clear views (depending on the rain) of the town. The Parish Church, Holy Trinity (the largest parish church in Cumbria), is mostly 1700’s, but has been there since the 13th Century.
Beside the Church is the Abbot Hall Art Gallery, beside the River Kent. Major art exhibitions are held here.
The Museum of Natural History and Archaeology is one of the oldest museums in the country, offering displays of natural history and archaeology, national and international.
The Quaker Tapestry, housed in the Kendal Quaker Meeting House, is the creation of more than 4000 people in 15 countries. It shows 300 years of social history.
Castle Howe consists of the earthwork remains of a motte and bailey castle, built around 1092.
Serpentine Woods were created on part of Kendal Fell, overlooking Kendal and the castle during the 19th Century. There are a number of paths that can be taken through the woods, circa 3 miles in all.
Alfred Wainwright lived in Kendal from 1941 until his death in 1991. The Tourist Information Centre in the Town Hall used to be his office when he was Treasurer.