Retire to Kendal
Famous for its mint cake, Kendal is a handsome market town on the edge of the Lake District National Park. It combines all the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with a few modern twists that make living here a unique joy.
Local retirees enjoy:
- An easy walk to amenities including cafes, restaurants, shops, hair, beauty and healthcare as well as a thriving local pub scene with many folk music nights.
- Excellent access to some of the most popular hiking routes in the country, as well as serene walks along the River Kent.
- A close knit community with lots of sports and leisure facilities, including a swimming pool, gyms and golf clubs.
1 retirement developments near Kendal
Alavana Place | Kendal
Retirement Living- Properties 4 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 75% example share/no rent £168,750
- Purchase from £229,950
- Rent from £1,815 pcm
Explore places in the Kendal area
Retirement living in Kendal
The lively market town of Kendal offers unparalleled access to unique natural landscapes making it ideal for an active retirement. Local shops provide everything you need for daily life, while plentiful transport links make it easy to plan adventures and day trips.
Access to all Kendal’s amenities
The iconic grey limestone streets of Kendal are incredibly walkable, with most essential shops and services within a 20-minute walk of the town centre.
- Groceries
You’ll find an Asda Superstore, Aldi and Sainsbury’s on the outskirts of Kendal as well as an M&S, Tesco Express and Booths in the centre. - Shops
Kendal has a good variety of shops selling everything from gifts and antiques to essentials like clothes. You’ll find what you need on the town high street or by exploring the quaint side streets. - Healthcare
Westmorland General Hospital is less than 10 minutes away from the town centre by road. There’s a choice of GP surgeries and dentists like Station House Surgery, Captain French Surgery, and Crossbank Dental Centre as well as opticians and pharmacies.
Things for retirees to do in Kendal
Kendal’s proximity to the Lake District makes it lively throughout the year - there’s always something to do.
- Try wild swimming, sailing, climbing, walking or hiking around Lake Windermere (15 minutes away by train).
- There’s a small museum and arts centres as well the Brewery Arts Centre which has two cinemas, a theatre, restaurant and more.
- Kendal Leisure Centre has a swimming pool, gym and sports hall as well as theatre and arts venue.
- There’s a choice of two extremely picturesque golf courses, Carus Green Golf Club and Kendal Golf Club plus a driving range.
- Community activities include the Mountain Festival, regular farmers markets and a vibrant U3A group.
- Don't miss the Kendal Mint Cake Factory for a sweet treat and local history.
Explore the surrounding areas
On the outskirts of Kendal, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and scenic spots while exploring the stunning Lake District National Park.
- Try walking trails like Hawkshead Hill for panoramic views.
- Visit Sizergh Castle, a National Trust property with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
- Another National Trust site is Allan Bank in Grasmere, offering peaceful surroundings and a glimpse into the area's literary heritage.
- For outdoor enthusiasts, Kentmere Valley is perfect for hiking and cycling.
- The Helm provides a short but rewarding climb with a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
- A short drive takes you to Ambleside, where you can explore charming shops, lakeside walks, or hike Loughrigg Fell for spectacular views.
Transport and connections in Kendal
The town’s proximity to the tourist hotspots in the Lake District ensures transport links around Cumbria and beyond are plentiful:
- By car
The A6 runs through Kendal, connecting the town to the M6, making larger settlements like Penrith and Lancaster accessible within forty minutes or so. - By bus
Several bus routes connect Kendal to Lancaster, Windermere and Ambleside, for a picturesque day trip. - By rail
Kendal Railway Station has excellent transport links to towns and cities throughout the North West of England with direct trains to Manchester and London. - By air
Manchester international airport is your best bet for global travel. You can reach the airport in around two hours by train from Kendal station.
Homeowner testimonials: telling it like it is
We believe we create great places to live. Beautiful award-winning retirement apartments in brilliant locations with thoughtful, reassuring, services on tap and a thriving friendly community on the doorstep.
But what do people living in our communities think? We regularly ask for feedback on everything from the sales and moving in process to the lifestyle and services. Here’s what our homeowners have to say:
The gardens here are the most beautiful I've ever seen, and I get to enjoy them without the worry of having to maintain them myself. It is just such an easy way of life and I would absolutely recommend downsizing to a development such as this.
Janet Roberts, homeowner
Browse by Retirement Living services
Our retirement developments offer differing amenities and assisted living services. Choose from two options to find your perfect fit.
Retirement Living
Low-maintenance independent living for people aged 60 and over, with a House Manager on-site and a friendly community on the doorstep.
Retirement Living Plus
Independence combined with assisted living for people aged 70 and over, including an Estate Manager, on-site restaurant and optional personal care.
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