Kendal Castle and River Walk
A circular walk visiting the River Kent and Kendal Castle. The castle dates from the 12th century, sitting in a prominent position above the town on Castle Hill. You can stroll around the atmospheric ruins and enjoy views over the town and the surrounding countryside.
The walk starts on the river next to the Grade I listed Kendal Parish Church. Follow the river south to the Abbot Hall recreation ground and then cross over to the eastern side. The route then climbs to the castle on public footpaths, reaching a height of about 300ft. It's a photogenic spot with the Lake District fells making a splendid backdrop to the ruins of the old manor hall and surviving castle tower.
After exploring the castle the walk descends back to the river where you can enjoy another waterside stroll before returning to the start point.
There's plenty of other good options for extending your walking in the Kendal area. You could head west of the town and enjoy a climb to Scout Scar. This excellent viewpoint gives fine views towards some of the most well known Lakeland fells.
There's also nice footpaths running south along the River Kent which takes you towards the lovely Sizergh Castle. The National Trusted owned estate contains miles of footpaths with pretty gardens, a lake and peaceful woodland in the adjacent Brigsteer Woods.
Near here you will also find the splendid Levens Hall with its deer park and eye catching topiary.
Head south west from the town and you will soon come to the Whitbarrow National Nature Reserve. Here you will find wonderful limestone scenery, ancient woodland and rich ground flora.
Finally, the Miller's Way long distance trail also starts in Kendal. The challenging trail runs alll the way to Carlisle with wonderful views of the Howgills, the Pennines and the Eden Valley.
Kendal Castle and River Walk Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Kendal Castle and River Walk Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Kendal Castle and River Walk OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Kendal Castle and River Walk Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
One good choice in the town is the popular New Union. The friendly pub won the prestigious CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2019. You can find it at 159 Stricklandgate with a postcode of LA9 4RF for your sat navs.
There's also the White Hart Hotel which has a beer garden where you can relax outside if the weather is good. It can be found at 2 Highgate with postcode LA9 4SX.
Dog Walking
The river paths and the castle climb make for a nice dog walk. Both the White Hart Hotel and New Union pubs mentioned above are also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
For some nice views over the town and the surrounding fells you could head east of the town centre to visit Hay Fell and it's peak of Benson Knott. The walk includes a stroll along the River Mint before climbing to the 319m / 1047ft summit.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Lake District Walks page.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Kendal Castle
Kendal Castle Ruins
Miller Bridge, Kendal
St George's Church, Kendal