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Museum · Kendal, England
Abbot Hall
Art gallery in a 1759 Georgian house on the banks of the River Kent, next to the parish church. It holds a collection of British art, including portraits by George Romney, and temporary exhibitions.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Abbot Hall
Abbot Hall is a Georgian house built in 1759 in the Kirkland area of Kendal, between the River Kent and the parish church of the Holy Trinity. The building is Grade I listed and has served as an art gallery since 1962.
The gallery is run by Lakeland Arts and houses a collection of British art from the 18th to the 20th centuries. One highlight is the portraits by George Romney, a painter who began his career in Kendal before becoming one of London’s most sought-after portraitists. There are also Lake District landscapes and works by modern artists.
After several years closed for refurbishment, Abbot Hall reopened in 2023 with refreshed rooms and temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year.
Next door, the medieval-origin parish church of the Holy Trinity has five aisles and is worth a visit on the same walk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About ninety minutes for the gallery.
Best time
During the day, on open days that vary by season; check before you go. It is a good option for rainy days.
How to get there
It is on Kirkland, in the southern part of Kendal town centre, a few minutes’ walk from the main street, beside the parish church.
Tip
Allow a few minutes for the Holy Trinity church next to the gallery, and for the River Kent bank.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Abbot Hall
What can you see at Abbot Hall?
A collection of British art from the 18th to 20th centuries, including portraits by George Romney and Lake District landscapes, plus temporary exhibitions.
Is Abbot Hall open?
The gallery reopened in 2023 after refurbishment. Days and opening times vary throughout the year; check before you go.
Who was George Romney?
An 18th-century painter who began his career in Kendal and became one of London’s most sought-after portraitists. Abbot Hall has several of his portraits.