Overlooked by the imposing ruins of its Norman Castle, birthplace of Henry VIII's sixth and final wife Catherine Parr, the ancient market town of Kendal is the oldest and most important of the Southern Lakeland communities. Here the clear river Kent winds its way through the town and hillside sheep farmers and tourists rub shoulders along the narrow old streets and picturesque yards.
Kendal is known as the 'Gateway to the Lakes' and is perfectly placed for touring this majestic part of the country. The town is surrounded on all sides by beautiful rolling countryside and it is just a short journey west to the Lake District National Park. Here there is a vast range of activities to choose from, from water sports, fishing and nature trails through to more leisurely pursuits such as taking a lakeland steamer cruise, or visiting any of a whole host of gardens, historic houses and museums. Of the many famous homes open to the public, Dalemain House and Gardens is well worth a visit. A medieval Tudor and early Georgian house that has been home to the same family since 1679, it also houses the Westmorland and Cumberland Yeomanry Museum.
And of course the Lake District inspired the works of many great poets and writers, perhaps the most famous of which is William Wordsworth. Dove Cottage in Grasmere, his home for many years, and Rydal, where he died in 1850, are both open to the public.
But it is the lakes themselves that draw people back to this beautiful corner of England time and time again. Windermere, Derwentwater, Grasmere, Ullswater, Coniston... each one has its own special character and personality, and each one is a delight to explore time, after time, after time.
The County Hotel, an historic former Coaching Inn situated in the centre of town, is just minutes from the busy high street. Here you can look forward to a warm welcome from our General Manager and staff, together with friendly service and comfortable accommodation. And when it comes to food you will not be disappointed. Start each day with a hearty breakfast, and in the evening look forward to mouth-watering four-course evening dinner menus guaranteed to satisfy the healthiest of holiday appetites. Bar snacks are available too.
The hotel features a lovely dining room complete with sprung dance floor, a pleasant lounge and two well-stocked bars. All 37 bedrooms are en suite and include colour TV, telephone and tea and coffee making facilities. Entertainment is regularly featured, and a lift serves all floors.
The County Hotel offers a number of special breaks and packages throughout the year, including week long holidays, midweek breaks and weekends. We also feature 'Turkey and Tinsel' festive breaks, Christmas Holidays and New Year breaks too. So whether you join us on business or pleasure you can be sure of the very best value at any time of the year. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Directions: From Junction 36 on the M6 take the A65 to Kendal. Follow the signs A6 North to Shap and Penrith, and the County is on the right hand side opposite the Railway Station entrance.
Contact Details: Station Road, Kendal Cumbria LA9 6BT
Tel 01539 722461
Fax 01539 732644
Email countykendal@theukholidaygroup.com
Access statement available upon request
