Abbot Hall Art Gallery in Kendal
Explore historic Georgian elegance and one of Britain’s finest art collections on the scenic banks of the River Kent in Kendal.
Abbot Hall Art Gallery, housed in a Grade I listed Georgian building dating back to 1759, is a premier cultural destination in Kendal, England. Set on the banks of the River Kent, it features an outstanding collection of British art ranging from historic masterpieces to contemporary works. The gallery is renowned for its extensive holdings of George Romney paintings, significant watercolours, and imaginative temporary exhibitions, all presented in elegant, light-filled spaces that blend history with vibrant community engagement.
A brief summary to Abbot Hall
- Kirkland, Kendal, LA9 5AL, GB
- +441539637940
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between Wednesday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm, to experience the full range of exhibitions and the coffee bar.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore both the art gallery and the museum’s historical exhibits.
- Check for temporary exhibitions and special events to catch unique displays beyond the permanent collection.
- Use nearby public transport options or park in Kendal town centre, as the gallery is centrally located but parking is limited.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By Car
From the south, exit M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 to Kendal. Follow signs into town centre; Abbot Hall is well signposted next to the Parish Church. Parking is limited in the town centre, so plan accordingly. Travel time from junction 36 is approximately 15-20 minutes.
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By Train
Take the mainline train to Oxenholme, then transfer to the Lakes Line to Kendal railway station. The gallery is about a 20-minute walk from Kendal station along relatively flat terrain, suitable for most visitors.
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By Bus
Regular bus services connect Kendal with the Lake District, Barrow, and Lancaster. The nearest bus stop to Abbot Hall is Weavers Court, across the river. From there, a scenic 6-minute riverside walk leads to the gallery. Buses run frequently during the day.
Abbot Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Abbot Hall
A Georgian Landmark with Rich Historical Roots
Abbot Hall was constructed in 1759 by Colonel George Wilson, on the site of an earlier monastic building connected to St Mary's Abbey, York. This elegant stone villa, now Grade I listed, originally served as a grand town house. Its architectural features include a symmetrical seven-bay east front, curved steps leading to a central round-headed doorway, Venetian windows, and gabled bays, all reflecting refined Georgian design. The building’s historical significance is intertwined with the region’s monastic past and the Wilson family’s legacy from nearby Dallam Tower.An Artistic Treasure Trove of British Masterpieces
Since its conversion into an art gallery in the early 1960s, Abbot Hall has become one of the UK’s leading art institutions. It houses one of Britain’s most important collections of George Romney’s paintings, along with his sketchbooks and drawings. The gallery also boasts exquisite 18th- and 19th-century watercolours by artists such as J.M.W. Turner, John Sell Cotman, Edward Lear, and John Robert Cozens. The collection spans historic to contemporary art, including works by Stanley Spencer, Bridget Riley, Sean Scully, and long-term loans of pieces by Constable, L.S. Lowry, and Lucian Freud.A Dynamic Cultural Hub with Inspiring Exhibitions
Abbot Hall is not only a repository of fine art but also a vibrant cultural centre. It regularly hosts imaginative temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes and artistic movements, attracting visitors with fresh perspectives. The gallery’s programming balances historical reverence with contemporary creativity, fostering community engagement and artistic dialogue. Its spaces are designed to showcase art in settings that echo the elegance of the Georgian era, enhancing the viewing experience.Immersive Museum Experience of Lake District Life
Beyond art, Abbot Hall includes a museum component that delves into the social history of the Lake District. Visitors can explore recreated period rooms and workshops that illustrate rural life before industrialization, featuring traditional recipes, vernacular furniture, and historic household items. This aspect offers a rich narrative of the region’s unique customs and ways of life, complementing the gallery’s artistic focus.Setting and Atmosphere by the River Kent
Nestled on the banks of the River Kent in Kendal, Abbot Hall benefits from a scenic riverside location that enhances its tranquil and refined atmosphere. The building’s elegant Georgian architecture harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering visitors a serene environment to appreciate art and history. The gallery’s light-filled interiors and period furnishings create an inviting ambiance that connects past and present.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Abbot Hall is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, featuring a coffee bar for refreshments. It is accessible via Kendal town centre, with nearby bus stops and a short walk from Kendal railway station. The gallery provides an enriching experience suitable for a wide audience, including families and art enthusiasts, with facilities designed to enhance visitor comfort and engagement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Westmorland County Showground
8.7 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Lake District
12.6 km
Explore the natural wonders of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with captivating lakes, scenic hikes, and charming villages.
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
13.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and historical charm at the Claife Viewing Station, a must-visit attraction on the shores of Windermere.
National Trust - Fell Foot
14.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
15.0 km
Explore the historical Stott Park Bobbin Mill in the Lake District, a fascinating heritage site showcasing traditional bobbin-making in a stunning natural setting.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
15.1 km
Discover the charming Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's historic home, where nature and imagination intertwine in the heart of the Lake District.
The Westmorland Family
16.5 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Leighton Hall Estate
17.9 km
Discover the charm and history of Leighton Hall Estate, a captivating destination in Carnforth featuring stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Ambleside Roman Fort
18.3 km
Discover the ancient Roman history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a captivating historical landmark in the heart of the Lake District.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
20.7 km
Discover Kirkhead Tower in Grange-over-Sands, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Rydal Cave
21.1 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
21.4 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Holker Hall & Gardens
21.6 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
22.9 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
24.0 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lakeland Museum
0.1 km
Discover the evolving story of Lake District life at the Lakeland Museum, a cultural gem undergoing transformation in Kendal.
Quaker Tapestry Museum
0.6 km
Discover over 350 years of Quaker history and social impact through stunning embroidered panels in Kendal’s historic Friends Meeting House.
Kendal Museum
1.0 km
Explore Kendal’s rich heritage and natural wonders in one of Cumbria’s oldest and most engaging museums.
Cumbria Woodlands
1.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and ecological wonders of Cumbria Woodlands, a perfect escape into nature in the heart of England.
Lake District National Park Authority
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking wonders of the Lake District National Park Authority, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventure await every visitor.
Burneside Hall
3.8 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
4.7 km
Discover centuries of history, stunning Elizabethan artistry, and natural beauty at Sizergh Castle and its expansive estate near Kendal.
National Trust - Sizergh
4.7 km
Explore centuries of history and stunning gardens at Sizergh Castle, a National Trust gem nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Levens Hall
7.4 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
8.7 km
A vibrant agricultural hub on the Lake District’s edge, celebrating farming heritage, local food, and rural crafts.
Blackwell
11.8 km
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
12.5 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
12.5 km
Experience stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District fells from the historic and accessible Orrest Head viewpoint.
Lake District
12.6 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
13.0 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
Essential places to dine
Comida [food]
0.4 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas at Comida in Kendal - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
0.6 km
Discover Ye Olde Fleece Inn: A historic gastropub offering delicious food and local ales in the heart of Kendal.
The Joshua Tree
0.6 km
Discover delightful breakfasts and cozy lunches at The Joshua Tree Bistro in Kendal - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Cottage Kitchen
0.6 km
Discover the warmth and flavors at The Cottage Kitchen – Kendal's beloved café offering delightful breakfasts and gluten-free options.
Pedro's Casa
0.9 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant cocktails at Pedro's Casa in Kendal - where flavor meets festivity.
Romneys
0.9 km
Experience delightful dining at Romneys in Kendal – where traditional carvery meets family-friendly fun amidst beautiful scenery.
The Duke of Cumberland
1.2 km
Experience the heart of Kendal at The Duke of Cumberland - where traditional British cuisine meets modern pub culture.
The Greenhouse Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience Modern British cuisine at The Greenhouse Restaurant in Kendal - where local flavors meet elegant dining.
The Gateway Inn
3.3 km
Experience comfort and local charm at The Gateway Inn in Kendal – your perfect base for exploring the beautiful Lake District.
The Black Labrador
4.9 km
Experience delightful dining at The Black Labrador in Underbarrow—where comfort meets culinary excellence amidst stunning Lake District scenery.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
7.1 km
Discover The Punch Bowl Inn: A charming restaurant and inn in Crosthwaite offering delicious food, cozy accommodations, and beautiful countryside views.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
8.8 km
Experience the charm of The Wild Boar Inn in the Lake District - where rustic elegance meets modern comfort amidst stunning natural beauty.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
9.6 km
Experience the best of British cuisine and craft brewing at Watermill Inn & Brewery in Ings - where every meal is paired with stunning Lake District views.
Henrock
11.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Henrock in Windermere—where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
The Ryebeck Hotel
11.8 km
Experience unparalleled comfort at The Ryebeck Hotel, where fine dining meets stunning lakeside views in the heart of Windermere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.2 km
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Iluvmemost Boutique
0.6 km
Discover unique ladies' clothing at Iluvmemost Boutique in Kendal, where style meets quality in a charming shopping experience.
Kendal Indoor market
0.6 km
Explore Kendal Indoor Market for a delightful mix of local flavors, crafts, and community spirit in the heart of Kendal.
Toyland Toyshop Kendal
0.7 km
Explore Toyland Toyshop Kendal - a whimsical destination with a wide array of toys and games perfect for children and the young at heart.
Ryman Stationery
0.7 km
Discover Ryman Stationery in Kendal for a vast selection of quality stationery and unique gifts, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Waterstones
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Waterstones in Kendal, a bookshop paradise for tourists filled with diverse literature and cozy reading spaces.
Westmorland Shopping Centre
0.7 km
Explore the diverse shopping and dining experiences at Westmorland Shopping Centre, a must-visit destination in Kendal for tourists.
Clarks Outlet
0.7 km
Shop stylish and affordable footwear at Clarks Outlet in Kendal, where comfort meets fashion in an inviting shopping environment.
Elephant Yard Shopping
0.7 km
Explore the lively Elephant Yard Shopping Centre in Kendal for unique boutiques, delightful cafes, and a vibrant local shopping experience.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
0.7 km
Explore Blackhall Shopping Yard in Kendal for unique shops, delightful cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere showcasing local craftsmanship.
The Antiques Emporium
1.3 km
Explore a remarkable collection of antiques and collectibles at The Antiques Emporium in Kendal, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and treasure hunters alike.
Sainsbury's
2.0 km
Experience the best of local flavors and convenience at Sainsbury's in Kendal, your ultimate supermarket destination.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
2.7 km
Explore the Lakeland Distribution Centre for an unparalleled selection of kitchen supplies and home goods in the heart of Kendal.
Forget Me Not
12.1 km
Explore the charm of Windermere at Forget Me Not, your destination for unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
12.1 km
Discover the best of local produce and culinary delights at Booths, Windermere — your one-stop shop in the heart of the Lake District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Barrel House
0.4 km
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19 The Wine Bar
0.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and delicious dishes at 19 The Wine Bar in Kendal, a must-visit for all wine enthusiasts.
Fell Bar Kendal
0.5 km
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Masons Yard 24
0.6 km
Experience the heart of Kendal at Masons Yard 24, a cozy pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
The New Union
1.0 km
Experience the charm of The New Union, Kendal's beloved pub with a fantastic whisky selection and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
4.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of British tradition and modern comfort at the Wheatsheaf Inn in scenic Brigsteer.
Strickland Arms
5.2 km
Experience local flavors at Strickland Arms, a charming pub in Sizergh, offering exquisite dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
The Whistling Pig
5.7 km
Experience the warmth of British hospitality at The Whistling Pig, a cozy pub in Staveley offering local ales and delicious pub fare.
The Brown Horse Inn
9.9 km
Experience the charm of The Brown Horse Inn in Windermere, where traditional British cuisine meets a cozy pub atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
12.2 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where great ales and delicious homemade pies await.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
12.2 km
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The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
12.2 km
Discover The Boathouse, a charming gastropub in Windermere Marina, offering delicious cuisine and stunning lakeside views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Arts Bar
12.3 km
Discover The Arts Bar in Windermere, where exceptional cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create the perfect retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
The Windermere Speakeasy
12.3 km
Experience the unique charm of The Windermere Speakeasy, where delightful brunches meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vintage-inspired setting.
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
12.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at BAHA Bowness, where great food meets unforgettable live music in picturesque Bowness-on-Windermere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly