Kendal Castle and River Walk

1.6 miles (2.5 km)

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.
Walk Report October 12th 2026 By Peter Lawson:
We began this circular walk beside Kendal Parish Church, taking a little time to look at the impressive church before following the River Kent south.... It was a pleasant change from walking through the town centre, with the sound of the water nearby and paths leading through the riverside green spaces. We passed Abbot Hall recreation ground, where people were out enjoying the open space, before crossing the river and making our way towards Kendal Castle.
The climb to the castle was steeper than it first appeared on the map. The path winds uphill through trees, and after rain the ground can become muddy, with wet leaves making the steps slippery. We took it steadily and were rewarded with a fine view back over Kendal as the trees began to open up. It is worth wearing proper footwear, particularly in autumn and winter, when the paths can be much less forgiving than they look in photographs.
Kendal Castle is a ruin rather than a fully preserved fortress, but I found it fascinating to wander around the remaining walls and imagine how the site must have looked centuries ago. Built in the late 12th century, it later became associated with the Parr family; Catherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth wife, is the best-known member of the family. Information boards help explain the remains, and there are openings and sections of the old structure that make it more interesting than a quick look from the outside. The castle is free to visit, and there is no ticket office or café at the top, so it is best to bring any refreshments with you.
The real reward is the view. From the castle grounds, Kendal spreads out below, with the rooftops and church towers of the town framed by the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, the Lakeland hills provide a wonderful backdrop. I could understand why local people come up here for a regular dog walk or a bit of exercise; it feels removed from the busy streets below, even though the town is only a short distance away. We stayed longer than expected, looking around the ruins and taking photographs from different points on the hill.
After leaving the castle, we descended towards the River Kent and returned to the waterside paths. This was a gentler section after the climb, and we enjoyed watching the current move around the bends and listening to the birds along the banks. The river is a familiar feature of Kendal, but seeing the town from its quieter riverside paths gives it a different character from the shops and traffic of the centre. Depending on the season, there may be ducks and other waterbirds along the water, so it is worth keeping an eye out as you walk.
One thing I liked about this route was the contrast between the two halves. The riverside section is relaxed and relatively level, while the ascent to the castle provides a short but worthwhile workout and a bit of history. The castle itself is not a grand, intact attraction, and some visitors may find there is less to explore than they expected, but the setting and panoramic views make the climb worthwhile. There are no facilities at the ruins, and the steep paths are not ideal for pushchairs or anyone who struggles with uneven ground.
Back near the church, we had time to explore a little more of Kendal, known as the Auld Grey Town for its traditional grey limestone buildings. The town’s historic streets and independent shops make a good extension to the walk, and a café stop is an easy way to round off the outing. For such a short circular route, it offers a pleasing mix of river scenery, local history and views over the edge of the Lake District, without needing to drive out into the countryside.
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.
Pubs and More Info
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.
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.