Travel guide to Kendal
Find your perfect group stay in Kendal
Group getaways to Kendal
Looking for a Lake District group holiday with a little bit of everything? Kendal is your answer. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Lakes’, this lively market town combines history, culture, and great food with easy access to the dramatic fells and lakes of the national park.
Whether you’re gathering the family, celebrating with friends, or planning a couples’ getaway, Kendal makes a brilliant base. You’ll have castles and museums on your doorstep, plus Windermere just a short drive away for classic Lake District adventures.
In this guide, you’ll get the lowdown on the top things to do, places to stay and visit, local walks and restaurants for your group getaway.
At-a-glance info
- Historic market town atmosphere
- Castles, museums, and culture
- Great food and drink scene
- Close to Lake Windermere and the central fells
Things to do in Kendal
- Explore Kendal Castle – A dramatic ruin perched above the town with panoramic views.
- Visit the Quaker Tapestry Museum – An unusual but fascinating attraction telling the story of the Quakers.
- Stroll along the River Kent – Easy, scenic riverside walks for groups of all ages.
- Head to Windermere – Just 15 minutes’ drive for boating, swimming, and lakeside walks.
- Tour a brewery – The Hawkshead Brewery in nearby Staveley offers tastings and tours, ideal for groups.
- Step into art and history – Abbot Hall Gallery and the Museum of Lakeland Life make for a great cultural afternoon.
Popular towns and villages near Kendal
- Staveley – A foodie hub with Hawkshead Brewery and artisan cafés.
- Bowness-on-Windermere – Bustling lakeside town with shops, pubs and boat trips.
- Ambleside – A great base for walks, plus cosy pubs and bookshops.
- Sedbergh – England’s official book town, with independent shops and access to the Howgills.
Popular local walks around Kendal
Scout Scar (3 miles)
A short but rewarding walk up to a limestone ridge with sweeping views across the Lakeland fells. Perfect for families and mixed-ability groups.
Serpentine Woods and Poetry Trail (2 miles)
A fun woodland stroll close to town, with engraved stones featuring lines of poetry along the way.
Kendal Castle circular (1.5 miles)
A gentle loop up to the castle ruins, ideal for a relaxed group wander.
Kentmere Horseshoe (12 miles)
For adventurous groups, this challenging fell walk takes in several peaks and offers outstanding views.
Eat and drink around Kendal
Kendal has a thriving food scene, from historic pubs to fine dining. Perfect for group meals:
- The Brewery Arts Centre – A cultural hub with food, live music, and craft beers.
- The Black Labrador, Underbarrow – A cosy country pub just outside Kendal, with great food and a beer garden.
- La Luna – A popular Italian joint serving up homemade pasta dishes and pizzas.
- Farrers Tea and Coffee House – A classic café for cakes and coffee in the heart of town.
Top tips for visiting Kendal on a group holiday
- Use Kendal as a base – You’ll be close to Windermere, Ambleside and the central fells while still enjoying a lively town atmosphere.
- Plan group meals – Popular pubs and restaurants book up fast, especially for larger groups. Reserve ahead.
- Don’t miss Kendal Mint Cake – The local sweet is a Lake District tradition and a perfect hiking snack.
- Check events – Kendal hosts festivals including the Mountain Film Festival and Kendal Calling music festival – ideal to tie into a group trip.
Gather your group and explore the gateway to the Lake District with Big Cottages
Search our cottages in KendalMore inspiration
If you need a little inspiration for your next trip, here are some articles and guides from our team to start planning your next adventure.
