Kendal

The market town of Kendal is situated in the Lake District in Cumbria. On the fringes of the National Park Kendal is a popular base for visitors to the picturesque Lake District. The popular Lake Windermere is only 8 miles from Kendal and easily accessible by car or public transport. Kendal lies in the valley of the River Kent and is known as the home of Kendal Mint Cake.

History
Kendal once known as "Kirby Kendal" takes its name from the River Kent and the Old Norse word "dair" meaning "valley". Kendal dates back to at least the iron Age when a fort was built about two miles south of the present day town. In AD 90 the Romans built a fort on the site which remained occupied until AD 270. The Normans built a motte and bailey castle to the west of the town, then known as "Kirbie Strickland" which was replaced in the 12th century by a stone fortification for the barony of Kendal. 

The main high street in the town is surrounded by fortified alleyways, which were used as shelter form the Border Reivers who were active in the area from the late 13th to early 17th century. The town grew up around the production of woollen goods, particularly the well known "Kendal Green". 

In later years the town has been well known for the production of Kendal mint cake and snuff and tobacco products. The town's strategic position on the fringes of the picturesque Lake District has led to a rise in tourism and popularity.

Kendal Castle

Kendal Castle was built in the 12th century as the home of the Lancaster family, who were the Barons of Kendal. Bt the 15th century the castle was owned by the Parr family. By the time Catherine Parr married King Henry VIII the family had long deserted the castle and it had fallen into disrepair. 

https://visit-kendal.co.uk

https://www.visitcumbria.com/sl/kendal/