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Castle · Kendal, England
Kendal Castle
Ruins of a 13th-century stone castle on a hill east of the town. It was associated with the Parr family; access is free and the view reaches Kendal and the surrounding mountains.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Kendal Castle
Kendal Castle crowns a hill east of the River Kent, facing the town centre. What remains are sections of the circular curtain wall, towers and parts of the stone domestic range of a fortification that replaced an earlier earth-and-timber defence in the 13th century.
Between the 14th and 16th centuries the castle belonged to the Parr family. Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII, was from that family, and local tradition holds that she was born there; historians regard a London birth as more likely. By the 16th century the castle was already abandoned and its stone was reused in other buildings.
Today the ruins lie in an open park with free access. The climb is short but steep, and from the top you can see Kendal’s roofs, the Kent river valley and, on clear days, the Lake District fells.
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 an hour, allowing for the ascent and return.
Best time
At late afternoon, with low light over the town, or on clear days when the fells are visible. After rain the path can become slippery.
How to get there
It is about 1 km from the town centre, on the far side of the River Kent. Cross one of the bridges and follow the signs to the path that climbs the hill.
Tip
Wear sturdy footwear: the path is grassy and can be muddy.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kendal Castle
Was Catherine Parr born at Kendal Castle?
Local tradition says so, but historians consider it more likely she was born in London. The castle belonged to the Parr family between the 14th and 16th centuries.
Do you have to pay to visit Kendal Castle?
No admission is charged: the ruins sit in a park with free access.
How long is the walk up to Kendal Castle?
About 15 to 20 minutes on foot from the town centre, with a steep section at the end.