Lake District National Park Authority Headquarters
The administrative heart of England’s largest national park, championing conservation and sustainable visitor experiences in the Lake District.
Located on Murley Moss Lane, Oxenholme Road in Kendal, the Lake District National Park Authority headquarters serve as the administrative heart for England’s largest national park. This centre manages conservation, visitor information, and sustainable development across the stunning Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its dramatic landscapes, lakes, and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Lake District National Park Authority
- Murley Moss Ln, Oxenholme Rd, Kendal, LA9 7RL, GB
- +441539724555
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:45 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid peak times and enjoy a quieter experience in Kendal’s surroundings.
- Use public transport via Oxenholme railway station to reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy a scenic walk to the headquarters.
- Check the Lake District National Park Authority website for updates on conservation projects and visitor information.
- Explore nearby Windermere and local villages to complement your visit with natural beauty and regional culture.
- Wear sturdy footwear if planning to explore the wider park, as trails can be rugged and weather conditions change rapidly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Windermere to the headquarters takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via the A591 and A65. Parking is available on-site, including electric vehicle charging points. Note that the car park is home to local wildlife, so drive carefully.
-
Train and Walking
Take a train to Oxenholme Lake District Station. From there, it is a 15-minute walk along Oxenholme Road to the headquarters. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers.
-
Bus
From Ambleside, take bus service 555 to Kendal Bus Station, then transfer to bus service 41 towards Oxenholme. Alight at Oxenholme Road stop and walk about 5 minutes to the headquarters. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance.
Lake District National Park Authority location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lake District National Park Authority
Central Hub of Conservation and Management
The Lake District National Park Authority headquarters is situated in a modern business park setting on Murley Moss Lane, just outside Kendal. This site functions as the operational base for the organisation responsible for preserving and managing the Lake District National Park, England’s largest and most celebrated national park. The Authority oversees environmental protection, planning, and sustainable tourism initiatives, ensuring the park’s natural beauty and cultural legacy are maintained for future generations.Setting and Surroundings
Nestled near the town of Kendal, the headquarters is surrounded by the gentle rolling hills and lush greenery characteristic of Cumbria. The location is within easy reach of key Lake District attractions, including Windermere, the largest lake in England. The business park environment combines modern facilities with accessibility, featuring ample parking, including electric vehicle charging points, and is noted for its friendly local wildlife such as resident rabbits.Visitor Engagement and Services
While primarily an administrative centre, the Authority’s offices provide valuable resources for visitors and locals alike. The staff offer expert advice on planning applications, conservation efforts, and park regulations. Though visits are by appointment only, the Authority encourages sustainable travel and supports public transport access, with Oxenholme railway station just a 15-minute walk away. This accessibility underlines the park’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.Role in the Lake District Experience
The Lake District National Park Authority plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between tourism and conservation. The park’s dramatic landscapes—shaped by glaciers and rich in lakes, mountains, and forests—draw millions annually. The Authority’s stewardship ensures that activities such as hiking, boating, and cultural exploration can be enjoyed responsibly, preserving the park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.Community and Environmental Commitment
The Authority actively promotes environmental sustainability and community engagement. It manages protected areas, enforces byelaws, and supports wildlife habitats within the park. Visitors are encouraged to respect the Leave No Trace principles and explore local villages to experience authentic Cumbrian culture and cuisine, enhancing the overall heritage experience.Accessibility and Practical Information
Open weekdays from 9am to 5pm (closing slightly earlier on Fridays), the headquarters is a focal point for planning and information. While not a traditional visitor centre, it complements the network of information points and outdoor centres scattered throughout the park, such as Brockhole Visitor Centre. Its location on Oxenholme Road makes it accessible by car and public transport, supporting the park’s ethos of sustainable and inclusive access.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
20.0 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
21.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tarn Hows, a nature reserve in the Lake District with stunning landscapes and tranquil walking trails.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
22.1 km
Visit Rydal Mount and Gardens, the historic home of poet William Wordsworth, and explore its stunning gardens and rich literary heritage.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
22.2 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Rydal Cave
22.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and rich history of Rydal Cave, a hidden gem in the Lake District perfect for hiking and exploration.
Wordsworth Grasmere
24.2 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
24.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, a stunning hiking destination showcasing nature's wonders in the Yorkshire Dales.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
25.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich literary history of Allan Bank and Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
Sir John Barrow Monument
25.6 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Halton Castle (Remains)
26.1 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Halton Castle, a historical landmark in Lancaster offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Ribblehead Viaduct
26.2 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Start Of Cumbria Way
26.7 km
Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
26.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Blea Tarn in the Lake District, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts amidst stunning landscapes.
Lune Aqueduct
27.2 km
Explore Britain’s largest all-masonry aqueduct, a Georgian engineering marvel spanning the River Lune with stunning views and rich industrial heritage.
The Clock Tower
27.7 km
Historic Elizabethan-style Clock Tower standing proudly on Morecambe’s seafront, symbolizing the town’s Victorian heritage and timeless charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Abbot Hall
1.4 km
Explore historic Georgian elegance and one of Britain’s finest art collections on the scenic banks of the River Kent in Kendal.
Lakeland Museum
1.5 km
Discover the evolving story of Lake District life at the Lakeland Museum, a cultural gem undergoing transformation in Kendal.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.5 km
Discover rare antiques and unique collectibles in the heart of Kendal’s historic market district.
Quaker Tapestry Museum
2.0 km
Discover over 350 years of Quaker history and social impact through stunning embroidered panels in Kendal’s historic Friends Meeting House.
Toyland Toyshop Kendal
2.1 km
Discover a world of imagination and fun at Toyland Toyshop Kendal, where every visit sparks joy and creativity for all ages.
Westmorland Shopping Centre
2.1 km
Kendal’s only covered shopping centre blending high street brands, local shops, and family-friendly events in the heart of the South Lakes.
Kendal Museum
2.3 km
Explore Kendal’s rich heritage and natural wonders in one of Cumbria’s oldest and most engaging museums.
The Antiques Emporium
2.8 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant family-run antique centre with over 50 traders offering timeless treasures in a historic mill setting.
National Trust - Sizergh
3.8 km
Discover centuries of history, stunning Elizabethan artistry, and natural beauty at Sizergh Castle and its expansive estate near Kendal.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
4.0 km
A vital, flood-conscious distribution hub blending modern logistics with Lake District landscape near Kendal.
Burneside Hall
5.2 km
Explore the medieval charm and fortified heritage of Burneside Hall, a historic pele tower nestled in the scenic countryside near Kendal.
Levens Hall
6.4 km
Explore Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor with the world’s oldest topiary gardens, rich history, and stunning Jacobean interiors near Kendal, Cumbria.
Westmorland County Showground
7.3 km
A vibrant agricultural hub on the Lake District’s edge, celebrating farming heritage, local food, and rural crafts.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
9.8 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
11.0 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Essential places to dine
Romneys
1.0 km
Classic British carvery dining with family-friendly amenities and cozy accommodation in the heart of Kendal.
The Greenhouse Restaurant
1.7 km
Modern British dining with stunning views of Kendal Castle, nestled in the scenic Castle Green Hotel gardens.
Comida [food]
1.8 km
Savor vibrant Spanish tapas in Kendal’s charming Highgate street at Comida, where fresh flavors meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
The Joshua Tree
2.0 km
Cosy family-run bistro in a historic Kendal building serving fresh traditional British fare with warm, welcoming charm.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
2.0 km
Historic gastropub in Kendal offering seasonal British fare, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Cottage Kitchen
2.0 km
A cozy Kendal café offering hearty breakfasts and dedicated gluten-free options in a charming, welcoming setting.
Pedro's Casa
2.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican tapas and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting at Pedro's Casa, Kendal's vibrant culinary gem.
The Duke of Cumberland
2.4 km
A traditional Kendal pub with hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere including a cozy beer garden and private function rooms.
The Gateway Inn
4.7 km
A cozy inn and restaurant in Kendal offering comfort, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring the Lake District.
The Black Labrador
5.6 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub near Kendal serving exceptional local dishes in a warm, welcoming Lake District setting.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
7.6 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
The Brown Horse Inn
10.7 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
The Wheatsheaf, Beetham
11.6 km
Historic country pub and inn in Milnthorpe offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in scenic Cumbria.
Henrock
12.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
The Ryebeck Hotel
12.8 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Iluvmemost Boutique
2.0 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Kendal Indoor market
2.1 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Ryman Stationery
2.1 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Waterstones
2.1 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Clarks Outlet
2.1 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Elephant Yard Shopping
2.1 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
2.2 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Sainsbury's
3.3 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Pretty Things
13.3 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
13.3 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
13.3 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
13.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Herdy Bowness
13.3 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
The Original Man Shop
13.3 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Love the Lakes Bowness
13.3 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Barrel House
1.8 km
Discover Kendal’s craft beer gem with vibrant ales, cozy wooden huts, and lively quiz nights in a historic brewery setting.
19 The Wine Bar
1.9 km
An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.
Fell Bar Kendal
1.9 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant Fell Bar, a quirky craft beer haven with artisan ales, live music, and delicious pizzas in a lively two-floor setting.
Masons Yard 24
2.0 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
The New Union
2.5 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
Strickland Arms
4.2 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
4.4 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
The Whistling Pig
7.0 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
13.2 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Arts Bar
13.3 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Fizzy Tarté
13.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
The Albert
13.3 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
13.4 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
Lago
13.4 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
13.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
13.3 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
13.7 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Manhattans Nightclub
38.8 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
38.8 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Lounge C9
38.8 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
The loose moose
39.3 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
42.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Peek A Booze
58.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
58.2 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Garlands
58.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Garlands, Blackpool's premier gay bar and night club, filled with music, dance, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Club underground
58.4 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Sanuk Nightclub
58.4 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
Soul Suite
58.4 km
Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.
Popworld - Blackpool
58.5 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
58.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly