Blackhall Shopping Yard
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
A historic and characterful shopping destination in the heart of Kendal, Blackhall Yard occupies the former site of the original Kendal Mint Cake Factory. This leafy courtyard hosts 14 independent artisan and specialist shops, offering everything from jewellery and crafts to local delicacies and unique gifts. With its distinctive black-and-white architecture and intimate atmosphere, it provides a quintessential Lake District shopping experience perfect for discovering locally-made products and supporting independent retailers.
A brief summary to Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
- Blackhall Yard 67, Stricklandgate, Kendal, Kendal, LA9 4LU, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2 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-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Two Sisters Cafe at the Stricklandgate entrance for excellent refreshments while shopping—a highly recommended spot to rest and refuel.
- Look for authentic Kendal Mint Cake and other local Lake District products among the specialist retailers—perfect souvenirs with genuine regional heritage.
- Arrive mid-week or early in the day to enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience with fewer crowds and better access to individual shop owners.
- Allow time to explore the courtyard's leafy atmosphere and architectural details—the black-and-white styling and mature trees create excellent photo opportunities.
- Check individual shop opening hours before visiting, as independent retailers may have varying schedules, particularly on Sundays and Mondays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
A Historic Courtyard with Character
Blackhall Yard stands as one of Kendal's most distinctive shopping destinations, occupying a leafy and characterful historic space in the town centre. The yard's most notable heritage is its former life as home to the original Kendal Mint Cake Factory, the confectionery that became synonymous with Lake District mountaineering and outdoor adventures. Today, this atmospheric courtyard retains its period charm with distinctive black-and-white architecture that evokes the character of traditional English market towns. The setting itself—with mature trees, stone walls, and intimate passageways—creates an inviting environment that feels removed from the bustle of modern high streets.Independent Retailers and Artisan Specialists
The yard now houses approximately 14 independent artisan and specialist shops, each carefully curated to offer something different from mainstream retail chains. Visitors will find boutique jewellery shops, craft retailers, gift specialists, and vendors of local products that reflect the region's heritage and contemporary creative scene. Lady K Jewellery operates a boutique within the yard, exemplifying the calibre of independent businesses that have chosen this location. The variety ensures that whether you're seeking handcrafted items, regional specialities, or distinctive gifts, there is genuine diversity to explore. The Two Sisters Cafe, located at the Stricklandgate entrance, provides refreshment and a welcoming spot to rest between browsing.The Kendal Mint Cake Connection
Kendal Mint Cake remains an iconic product associated with the Lake District, and Blackhall Yard's historical connection to its original manufacture adds cultural significance to any visit. This confectionery has long been favoured by mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts for its energy-boosting properties, making it a sought-after souvenir for visitors exploring the region. The yard's heritage as the birthplace of this famous product creates a tangible link to Kendal's industrial and commercial past, enriching the shopping experience with local history and authenticity.Atmosphere and Setting
The leafy courtyard environment distinguishes Blackhall Yard from conventional shopping centres. Mature trees provide natural shade and create a garden-like ambiance, while the enclosed nature of the space fosters a sense of discovery and intimacy. The architectural character—particularly the striking black-and-white styling—makes it visually distinctive and memorable. This setting appeals to visitors seeking a more personal, locally-rooted shopping experience rather than the standardised environment of chain retailers. The yard functions as a genuine community space where independent business owners maintain direct relationships with their customers.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 67 Stricklandgate in central Kendal, Blackhall Yard is positioned within easy walking distance of other town centre amenities and attractions. Its proximity to the Westmorland shopping centre provides additional retail options for those wanting to combine visits. The central location makes it an accessible stop for both residents and tourists exploring Kendal, whether as a dedicated shopping destination or as part of a broader town centre visit. The yard's integration into Kendal's pedestrian shopping area ensures it remains a natural waypoint for those navigating the town.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rydal Cave
20.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and rich history of Rydal Cave, a hidden gem in the Lake District perfect for hiking and exploration.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
21.0 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
21.2 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Holker Hall & Gardens
22.0 km
Explore the stunning Holker Hall & Gardens, a perfect blend of nature and history, offering visitors a captivating experience in Grange-over-Sands.
Wordsworth Grasmere
22.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
23.4 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.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
25.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Blea Tarn in the Lake District, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts amidst stunning landscapes.
Sir John Barrow Monument
26.0 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Lake District National Park
26.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
26.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, a stunning hiking destination showcasing nature's wonders in the Yorkshire Dales.
Start Of Cumbria Way
27.1 km
Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
Ribblehead Viaduct
27.8 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Halton Castle (Remains)
28.1 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Halton Castle, a historical landmark in Lancaster offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Lune Aqueduct
29.2 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
29.5 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
Westmorland Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Kendal’s only covered shopping centre blending high street brands, local shops, and family-friendly events in the heart of the South Lakes.
Quaker Tapestry Museum
0.3 km
Discover over 350 years of Quaker history and social impact through stunning embroidered panels in Kendal’s historic Friends Meeting House.
Kendal Museum
0.4 km
Explore Kendal’s rich heritage and natural wonders in one of Cumbria’s oldest and most engaging museums.
The Antiques Emporium
0.6 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant family-run antique centre with over 50 traders offering timeless treasures in a historic mill setting.
Lakeland Museum
0.7 km
Discover the evolving story of Lake District life at the Lakeland Museum, a cultural gem undergoing transformation in Kendal.
Abbot Hall
0.7 km
Explore historic Georgian elegance and one of Britain’s finest art collections on the scenic banks of the River Kent in Kendal.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.7 km
Discover rare antiques and unique collectibles in the heart of Kendal’s historic market district.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
2.0 km
A vital, flood-conscious distribution hub blending modern logistics with Lake District landscape near Kendal.
Lake District National Park Authority
2.2 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at the Lake District National Park Authority, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for outdoor adventures.
Burneside Hall
3.1 km
Explore the medieval charm and fortified heritage of Burneside Hall, a historic pele tower nestled in the scenic countryside near Kendal.
National Trust - Sizergh
5.3 km
Discover centuries of history, stunning Elizabethan artistry, and natural beauty at Sizergh Castle and its expansive estate near Kendal.
Levens Hall
8.1 km
Explore Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor with the world’s oldest topiary gardens, rich history, and stunning Jacobean interiors near Kendal, Cumbria.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
8.4 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
9.1 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Westmorland County Showground
9.4 km
A vibrant agricultural hub on the Lake District’s edge, celebrating farming heritage, local food, and rural crafts.
Essential places to dine
Pedro's Casa
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican tapas and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting at Pedro's Casa, Kendal's vibrant culinary gem.
The Cottage Kitchen
0.2 km
A cozy Kendal café offering hearty breakfasts and dedicated gluten-free options in a charming, welcoming setting.
The Joshua Tree
0.2 km
Cosy family-run bistro in a historic Kendal building serving fresh traditional British fare with warm, welcoming charm.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
0.2 km
Historic gastropub in Kendal offering seasonal British fare, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
Comida [food]
0.4 km
Savor vibrant Spanish tapas in Kendal’s charming Highgate street at Comida, where fresh flavors meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
The Duke of Cumberland
0.7 km
A traditional Kendal pub with hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere including a cozy beer garden and private function rooms.
Romneys
1.6 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.
The Gateway Inn
2.6 km
A cozy inn and restaurant in Kendal offering comfort, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring the Lake District.
The Black Labrador
4.8 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
7.1 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
The Brown Horse Inn
9.7 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
Henrock
11.1 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
11.5 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Hooked Seafood
11.6 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
0.0 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Ryman Stationery
0.1 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Waterstones
0.1 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Clarks Outlet
0.1 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
0.1 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Elephant Yard Shopping
0.1 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Iluvmemost Boutique
0.2 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Sainsbury's
1.3 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Forget Me Not
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
11.6 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Pretty Things
11.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
11.8 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
11.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
11.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
The Original Man Shop
11.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Masons Yard 24
0.2 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
Fell Bar Kendal
0.3 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.
19 The Wine Bar
0.3 km
An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.
The New Union
0.3 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
The Barrel House
0.4 km
Discover Kendal’s craft beer gem with vibrant ales, cozy wooden huts, and lively quiz nights in a historic brewery setting.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
4.7 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
The Whistling Pig
5.0 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
Strickland Arms
5.8 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
11.7 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.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
11.7 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
11.7 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Windermere Speakeasy
11.7 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Arts Bar
11.8 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Fizzy Tarté
11.9 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
11.9 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
11.6 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
12.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
37.2 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Manhattans Nightclub
39.4 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
39.4 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
39.4 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
secret bridge
40.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Dalesman's Club
59.4 km
Discover The Dalesman's Club in Leyburn, a vibrant sports club offering a welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities for visitors.
Peek A Booze
59.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
59.9 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Garlands
60.0 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
60.0 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Sanuk Nightclub
60.0 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
60.1 km
Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.
Popworld - Blackpool
60.2 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly