Holiday rentals in Kendal

Set along the River Kent between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, the Cumbrian town of Kendal is infused with tradition and industry. Kendal’s motto, Pannus mihi panis — cloth is my bread — originates from the area’s wool and cloth industry, lasting more than half a century thanks to the plethora of sheep roaming the encompassing hills. The lively cobbled streets you’d expect of a traditional marketplace run through the centre as a rising lush-green backdrop encircles the town. And if you take a picnic up to the ruins of the 13th-century castle, the birthplace of Henry VIII’s only wife to outlive him, you’ll discover a fantastic lookout.

Kendal makes an excellent base for exploring the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site with England’s highest mountains and deepest lakes. Also within reach are the Yorkshire Dales and its miles of moors, fells, and valleys to wander. Kendal itself is a popular hub for outdoor adventurers, with independent bars and cosy cafes ready to welcome and refuel intrepid ramblers, runners, and mountain bikers. The self-guided Kendal Trails — which includes the History Trail, the Beer, Wine & Food Trail, the Children’s Trail, and the Antique Trail — are another fun way to discover the town. Whatever your activity, you’ll want to pack a Kendal mint cake — the town’s delicacy and the original energy bar favoured by many who attempt and conquer on the ascent of Mount Everest.

Thanks to its geography, Kendal enjoys its fair share of rain, which helps keep the hills green and the lakes full. But Kendal residents are undeterred, so expect to find community events and festivals taking place year-round. If you book your holiday cottage in Kendal during August, you’ll enjoy the summer sun alongside the annual Walking Festival. With 14 guided routes to choose from, you’ll discover the town’s natural surroundings and the stories that were born in them. Torchlight Carnival takes place in late September each year, with an illuminated parade of lanterns making its way through the area. Comic book fans should arrange their Kendal holiday lets for October to coincide with an international comic arts festival.

Quaker Tapestry Museum

Discover the influence of the Quaker movement over the past 350 years through more than 40 vibrant embroidered panels. With themes including social reform, astronomy, and ecology, this is a colourful insight into how the Quakers have used art throughout history.

Sizergh Castle

Just outside of Kendal is a magnificent medieval estate dating back to 1350, equipped with an 18 metre-tall tower that served as protection against the frequent border raids of the area during the time. Local guides are present to tell the stories of each castle room, and the rare 16th-century oak panelling is some of the finest in England. The rock garden at the base of the castle has secret winding paths for you to explore, while many birds, such as the adorable hawfinch, and butterflies can be spotted fluttering around the gardens overhead.

Serpentine Woods

Originally grazing land for sheep, this woodland has been developed and maintained over the last 250 years. With approximately three miles of nature walking, you’ll want to keep an eye open for foxes, squirrels, and several sculptures marking the route.