Kendal, also known as 'The Gateway to the Lakes' is situated in the midst of beautiful Cumbrian countryside. Lying peacefully on the banks of the river Kent, it is a mere eight miles from Morecambe Bay and a short 20 minute drive from The Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Victorian architecture is prevalent in this market town, though there are also buildings dating back to the Norman period. The history of Kendal is portrayed in one of the oldest museums in the country; founded in 1796, Kendal Museum is a veritable 'Aladdin's Cave' of exhibits.
The Quaker Tapestry Exhibition Centre is home to one of the largest textile projects in the world. A series of 77 panels reflect 17th century Cumbrian life and they are housed in a fine Georgian building near the High Street.
Sizergh Castle is 700 years old; a rich medieval house with stunning gardens, it is home to the Strickland family. The castle's inlaid panelling is well worth seeing and in autumn, the gardens are a spectacular show of nature.
Lakes Leisure, on Burton Road, is an accredited venue for various swimming qualifications and presents a series of fitness programmes in the yoga and Pilate's genre. Kendal town has a host of social clubs and other recreational facilities.
Kendal has been associated with the woollen trade and other agricultural industries for hundreds of years. The tobacco and snuff trade continues under the auspices of the original families that started it, circa 1792. Kendal Mint Cake, well-known for its energy-giving properties, was introduced by Joseph Wiper and is a 'sweet' part of the towns's history.