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The area was established around the 8th century when a monastic estate was constructed by the River Kent. William II created a barony government in the region as a means of maintaining his northern territories. He had a wooden castle built on one side of the river, which was eventually constructed of stone on the opposite bank. The castle succumbed to ruin when the dynasty of barons died off two centuries later. The now medieval market town, developed north of the monastic estate, had land divided into separate plots, each having a distinct industry. The original town economy was supplied by textile producers, and the introduction of sheep and wool caused the community to flourish.
With the river for transport, manufacturers shipped goods to all parts of the country. Up to half of the town's population laboured in the wool industry shearing, combing, dyeing, spinning and knitting the commodity into cloth. Of the many wool products manufactured, Kendal Green cloth became the most associated with the town. Selling these products abroad brought sugar, tobacco and materials back to the community, which gave birth to confection and snuff making industries. The town quickly became synonymous with the confection known as mint cake. The development of coffee, paper and shoe manufacturers followed, along with electricity and the railroad. Kendal remains a commercial centre of South Lakeland.
Activities and Attractions
The ruins of Castle Kendal are situated on the top of a mound hill, or drumlin, east of the city. A tower, castle keep and the walls are all that remain of the 12th century fortress, where the town holds an annual fireworks display. Five miles south of the city lays Sizergh, a 14th century castle/manor house, which is also open to the public. Surrounded by 627 hectares (1600 acres) of pasture, orchards and woodlands, visitors also take in the splendour of the many wildflower and water gardens located on the property. Inside the castle, guests are treated to an extensive display of Elizabethan decor with wood carvings, paintings and sculptures, along with furnishings representative of the time.
The Kendal museum houses artefacts from the Castle Kendal, along with history of the area. Another historic location includes Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor estate with a traditional topiary garden. Guided tours of the home are available upon prior appointment. The Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry houses exhibits and live presentations of life in the region, from the time prior to the modernisation of the railroad and automobile. Outdoor enthusiasts must not neglect a trip to the bordering Lake District National Park where one may enjoy everything from leisurely strolls, climbing and water sports.
Places To Stay and Dining
Kendal offers a wide variety of accommodations from luxury hotels to campsites and everything in between. Modern amenities are included whether choosing to stay in an elaborate English country manor house or a modernised historic building in the heart of the city.
Dining options include everything from fast food to elegant world class dining as Kendal has numerous cafes, restaurants and pubs. Guests enjoy a wide selection of cuisines, including traditional English, Asian, Italian and other European specialties served in historic or trendy atmospheres.
Accommodation in Kendal
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