Kim Brough
25 October 2022
Kendal is known as the gateway to the Lake District thanks to its convenient position between the national park and the M6. It’s a gorgeous town with a river running through, castle ruins and lots of interesting attractions.
It’s also well known for its great shopping as you can buy everything from outdoor gear and gifts to ladies' fashions and sweet treats. There are several pretty shopping centres and yards, as well as independent stores and big brand names. If you’re staying at one of our holiday cottages near Kendal, then remember to set aside a day for some retail therapy!
Browse our cottages in Kendal
Jump to:
Kendal shopping centres and yards
Kendal is chock-a-block with delightful yards and ginnels, pedestrianised walkways, and modern outlets. There are eight main shopping areas, each with its own character and selection of shops to keep you busy for hours!
Blackhall Yard
This pedestrianised shopping area provides lots of character with its cobbled streets and range of quirky independent shops. If you want something a little different, then this is the place to find it. Discover Sarah Bibet Fused Glass, Reticule Fabrics and Happy Feet for ladies’ shoes, amongst others.
Elephant Yard Shopping Centre
This unusually named shopping centre takes its title from its location, which is on the site of the old Elephant Inn. You’ll find plenty of familiar names here including Next, Laura Ashley and Peacocks. If you’re into your artwork, you’ll also love browsing the AC Gallery for beautiful pieces.
Highgate
Highgate is one of the main streets through Kendal and, as a result, has plenty of shops to wander in and out of. If you love all things retro, then seek out 151 Records for new and used vinyl. Fishing enthusiasts can pick up some tackle at South Lakeland Angling Centre or Carlsons Fishing Tackle, while arty types can stock up on their own kit at Youdells Art Shop. There’s a great selection for all sorts of hobbyists!
Kirkland
For wonderful antique shops and retro goods, head to Kirkland in Kendal’s historic quarter. If you love to browse for hidden treasures and quirky beauties, then you could spend hours in places like The Old Curiosity Shop and The Nutshell.
New Shambles
Cumbria’s answer to York’s most famous street, New Shambles in Kendal is an enchanting, cobbled lane hidden to the side of the main square. Full of interesting independent shops, you’ll find a plethora of gifts, treats and useful items here. There are handmade accessories, eco-friendly beauty products, unique clothes boutiques, and wonderful craft shops.
Stramongate and Wildman Street
Taking one side of the river each and joined by a bridge, Stramongate and Wildman Street boast a blend of stores, from a fishmonger to ladies' clothes shops and the flagship store of popular Herdy. You can also pick up some fresh fruit and veg at the market stall on Stramongate every Wednesday and Saturday.
Wainwright’s Yard
Wainwright’s Yard has a small yet excellent combination of shops including popular Booths supermarket, Crew Clothing, and Another Weigh, a conscientious zero-waste food shop. You can stock up on supplies for your holiday cottage, pick out some new clothes, and even enjoy a meal out at Pizza Express, all in the same place!
Westmorland Shopping Centre
You’ll recognise plenty of shop names at Westmorland Shopping Centre: The Body Shop, Waterstones and Clarks amongst them. There’s also a permanent market in the building, open 6 days a week. Don’t forget to stop off and see The Butter Ladies – locals who sell homemade produce that we guarantee will have you licking your lips!
Clothes shops in Kendal
Whatever your style or budget, you’re going to find something you love in Kendal. The town has an amazing variety of independent boutiques, well-known clothing brands, and quality stockists. As well as shops you’ll already know such as Peacocks, M&S and Next, you can find smaller options such as:
Outdoor shops in Kendal
Being right on the edge of the Lake District, it’s no surprise that Kendal comes well-stocked with outdoor stores. There are familiar general stores like Mountain Warehouse and Trespass, as well as niche options such as Todds of Kendal specialising in equestrian gear, and Anything Technical for ski gear. You’re sure to pick up clothing and equipment for any outdoor activity.
Homeware and gift shops in Kendal
Where to start with Kendal’s gift shops and homeware? I hope you have plenty of room in your house because there are all sorts of temptations! The charming characters known as Herdy have their own shop in Kendal, while Ivy Bank Home & Gift sells quirky items with a conscience. Brocante at No. 45 is the ideal spot to find one-of-a-kind antique furniture and decorative interiors, or purchase some quality solid oak pieces at Cumbria Oak.
Food shops in Kendal
Like many other food producers in Cumbria, Kendal’s makers are determined to show off local delicacies and celebrate specialist foods. Sample some freshly baked artisan bread from Staff of Life Bakery, enjoy a taste of local beers at the Fell Bar microbrewery and, of course, don’t forget to pack your shopping bags with plenty of the world-famous Kendal Mint Cake!
There are also convenient places to do your grocery shopping, including Iceland, Tesco and Booths.
Markets in Kendal
There are three popular markets in Kendal, each bringing you stalls chock full of food, gifts, plants and clothes.
Kendal Farmers' Market takes place on the last Friday of every month, when local farmers descend on the town to tout their fabulous wares. If you’re not around for this once-a-month event, then you’ll want to check out the weekly outdoor markets every Wednesday and Saturday in the marketplace.
On rainy days, you can stay dry and warm at Kendal’s indoor market, every Monday and Saturday at the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
More shopping in Kendal
There are so many shops in Kendal that we simply couldn’t name them all here. Instead, why not set off from the centre of town and wander through squares and along streets, discovering the delights as you go? Whatever hidden corner or bustling centre you find, your shopping bags are sure to be bulging by the end of it! Keep an eye out for these gems especially:
Kendal shopping FAQs
Kendal is a fantastic location for shopping. There are independent shops, well-known chains, luxury outlets, and budget options all within walking distance of one another. There’s really something for everyone and Kendal’s pretty streets and squares make it a pleasure to go shopping there.
Kendal has a big selection of shops, and you’re likely to find anything you need here. You’ll see the usual high-street offerings like clothes shops, shoe shops, and food shops. Or you can explore the less common: antique stores, craft shops, art galleries, gift shops, and homeware stores. There is a mix of household names and independent businesses.
Kendal holiday cottages
Escape to one of our quality cottages in Kendal to be near the wonderful big stores, independent shops and charming boutiques in the heart of town. Browse the delightful shops before venturing off to discover more excellent attractions dotted across this beautiful region.
Kendal holiday cottages
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.