Things to do in Kendal, England: The Best Museums

Immerse yourself in Lake District History at the Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry. Inside you can explore a typical Victorian farmers home from the food in the kitchen, to the elegance of the parlour. Other galleries tell the story of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the industrial history of this beautiful part of the world. Here you can discover the Lake District’s past in farming, mining, tanning, and many other ways that people have made a living amongst the fells. The Museum allows you to discover how people have lived in the Lake District and how the unique landscape has shaped their lives. You can also find out about Arthur Ransome, one of the Lake District’s most famous authors, and colourful characters. And why not stroll down the Victorian high street before you go to find out about the toys, food, and even medicines of the past. The Museum of Lakeland life is a must see for anyone interested in the history of this beautiful area, and with changing exhibitions looking at all aspects of Lakeland Life there will always be something new to discover.

World famous attraction within the historic market town of Kendal in Cumbria. An award-winning, inspirational exhibition of embroidered panels telling stories of railways, revolutionary ideas and remarkable people. 350 years of social history, beautifully hand-crafted by 4,000 people from around the world. Facilities include, visitor audio guides in several languages, films, subsidiary displays, children's activities, garden, gift shop and cafe. Situated at Friends Meeting House in one of Kendal's finest Georgian buildings next to the River Kent. There is step-free access and a small visitor car park at the Stramongate entrance to the Meeting House. There is a Coach drop-off bay and bus station within 100 metres and Kendal train station within a five-minute walk.

Abbot Hall Art Gallery is a Grade 1 listed building with a national reputation for showing contemporary and historical works with powerful changing exhibitions. Conveniently located in the town centre, Abbot Hall enjoys a pretty riverside setting. Just a stone’s throw from leafy Abbot Hall Park and Kendal Parish Church, it makes for an inspiring day out for all. On permanent display in the period Georgian rooms is a selection of works by Cumbrian born artist George Romney (1734-1802), one of the greatest of all eighteenth-century portrait painters. The centre piece is what many perceive to be his masterpiece, the beautiful The Gower Family: The Children of Granville, 2nd Earl Gower (1776-7). Also on show is The Great Picture which is an impressive triptych commissioned by Lady Anne Clifford (1590-1678) in 1646. It depicts the story of her life-long struggle for, and ultimately succession to, the family inheritance.

Founded in 1796, Kendal Museum's fascinating collections include local and global archaeology, history, geology and natural history.