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
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
20.7 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
20.8 km
Visit Rydal Mount and Gardens, the historic home of poet William Wordsworth, and explore its stunning gardens and rich literary 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.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
25.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, a stunning hiking destination showcasing nature's wonders in the Yorkshire Dales.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
25.7 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
25.8 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
26.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Start Of Cumbria Way
26.9 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
27.3 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Halton Castle (Remains)
27.4 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Halton Castle, a historical landmark in Lancaster offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Lune Aqueduct
28.5 km
Explore Britain’s largest all-masonry aqueduct, a Georgian engineering marvel spanning the River Lune with stunning views and rich industrial heritage.
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.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.2 km
Discover rare antiques and unique collectibles in the heart of Kendal’s historic market district.
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.
Toyland Toyshop Kendal
0.7 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
0.7 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
1.0 km
Explore Kendal’s rich heritage and natural wonders in one of Cumbria’s oldest and most engaging museums.
The Antiques Emporium
1.3 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant family-run antique centre with over 50 traders offering timeless treasures in a historic mill setting.
Lake District National Park Authority
1.4 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at the Lake District National Park Authority, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for outdoor adventures.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
2.7 km
A vital, flood-conscious distribution hub blending modern logistics with Lake District landscape near Kendal.
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.
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.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
8.8 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
9.6 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Essential places to dine
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.
![Comida [food]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/RestaurantImages/394fbc7d-107b-46fe-8fa8-ebb8d44bce31)
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
0.6 km
Historic gastropub in Kendal offering seasonal British fare, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Joshua Tree
0.6 km
Cosy family-run bistro in a historic Kendal building serving fresh traditional British fare with warm, welcoming charm.
The Cottage Kitchen
0.6 km
A cozy Kendal café offering hearty breakfasts and dedicated gluten-free options in a charming, welcoming setting.
Pedro's Casa
0.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican tapas and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting at Pedro's Casa, Kendal's vibrant culinary gem.
Romneys
0.9 km
Classic British carvery dining with family-friendly amenities and cozy accommodation in the heart of Kendal.
The Duke of Cumberland
1.2 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 Greenhouse Restaurant
1.5 km
Modern British dining with stunning views of Kendal Castle, nestled in the scenic Castle Green Hotel gardens.
The Gateway Inn
3.3 km
A cozy inn and restaurant in Kendal offering comfort, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring the Lake District.
The Black Labrador
4.9 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
9.9 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
Henrock
11.4 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
11.8 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Hooked Seafood
12.1 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Iluvmemost Boutique
0.6 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Kendal Indoor market
0.6 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Ryman Stationery
0.7 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Waterstones
0.7 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Clarks Outlet
0.7 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Elephant Yard Shopping
0.7 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
0.7 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Sainsbury's
2.0 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Forget Me Not
12.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
12.1 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Pretty Things
12.2 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
12.2 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
12.2 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
12.3 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
The Original Man Shop
12.3 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
19 The Wine Bar
0.4 km
An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.
Fell Bar Kendal
0.5 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
0.6 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
The New Union
1.0 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
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.
Strickland Arms
5.2 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
The Whistling Pig
5.7 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
12.2 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
12.2 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
12.2 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
12.2 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Arts Bar
12.3 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Windermere Speakeasy
12.3 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Fizzy Tarté
12.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
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
