
Kendal Museum
Discover Kendal's rich history, fascinating wildlife, and striking art in this diverse and accessible museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Kendal Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kendal's rich history, fascinating wildlife, and striking art in this diverse and accessible museum.
"A surprisingly rich collection, especially the vast taxidermy downstairs, making it a must-visit."

🎯 Don't Skip the Lower Floor!
The taxidermy collection downstairs is a major highlight for many visitors. Be prepared for a vast and unique display!
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Station
Just a 5-minute walk from Kendal train station, making it super accessible for travelers arriving by public transport.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Taxidermy Collection
Lower Ground Floor
An astonishingly large collection of stuffed animals, insects, and more. Morbidly fascinating and a definite talking point.

Regional History & Archaeology
Main Floors
Explore Kendal's past with exhibits on local history, archaeology, and even war memorabilia. Discover the town's rich heritage.

Geology and Rock Samples
Dedicated Room
Fascinating displays of rock samples and geological wonders. A highlight for those interested in the earth's natural history.

Art Exhibitions
Gallery Spaces
Discover rotating art exhibitions, often featuring local artists and thought-provoking themes like climate change.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Taxidermy!
Accessibility & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Skip the Lower Floor!
The taxidermy collection downstairs is a major highlight for many visitors. Be prepared for a vast and unique display!
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Station
Just a 5-minute walk from Kendal train station, making it super accessible for travelers arriving by public transport.
♿ Wheelchair Friendly Access
Two out of three floors are accessible for wheelchair users, ensuring a good experience for most visitors.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the fascinating exhibits! While some temporary exhibitions might have restrictions, general photography is usually permitted.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Skip the Lower Floor!
The taxidermy collection downstairs is a major highlight for many visitors. Be prepared for a vast and unique display!
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Station
Just a 5-minute walk from Kendal train station, making it super accessible for travelers arriving by public transport.
♿ Wheelchair Friendly Access
Two out of three floors are accessible for wheelchair users, ensuring a good experience for most visitors.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the fascinating exhibits! While some temporary exhibitions might have restrictions, general photography is usually permitted.
☕ On-site Cafe & Shop
Grab a coffee or browse for souvenirs at the small cafe and gift shop located within the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kendal Museum for its surprisingly rich and diverse collections, particularly the extensive and fascinating taxidermy downstairs. Its convenient location near the train station and reasonable entry fees are also frequently highlighted as major positives. While the taxidermy can be intense for some, the overall experience is described as educational, interesting, and well worth a visit.
"Lovely little museum art gallery filled with oddities fossils and semi precious stones. Downstairs is the real treat, quite simply the largest collection of taxidermy i have ever seen in one place..........somewhat morbid but very interesting nonetheless."
David griffiths
"Kendal Museum is a wonderful spot to explore, and the best part is how close it is — just about a 5-minute walk from the train station. It’s easy to get to, and once inside, you’ll find a surprisingly rich collection.
The museum showcases a wide range of exhibits, from war memorabilia and wildlife displays to fascinating collections of coins, art pieces, and much more. Each section offers something different, making it enjoyable for both history lovers and curious visitors alike.
For anyone visiting Kendal, this museum is definitely a must-go. It’s convenient, varied, and gives a deeper look into both local and wider history."
Rakesh
"They should rename this museum to the taxidermist museum as there is a heck of a lot of stuffed animals, insects shown on the lower ground floor. Two of the three floors are accessible to wheelchairs users. The entrance fees are reasonable at £5 per adult and can be used as a year pass should you wish to torment your vegetarian friends on return visits. There is a small cafe and gifts shop plus an accessible WC. Parking is paid and displayed at £2 for 3 hours.
The room with all the different rock samples was my highlight but quite a tight squeeze for wheelchair users. Also, if I remember correctly, the Kendal Museum is one of the oldest museums in England."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kendal Museum is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Kendal train station, making it easily accessible for those arriving by public transport. If driving, there is paid parking available nearby.
Yes, there is paid parking available near the museum. Expect to pay around £2 for 3 hours, which is generally sufficient for a visit.
Absolutely! The museum is very centrally located and a pleasant short walk from the main town center, making it easy to combine with other local attractions.
If you're staying in Kendal, walking is likely the easiest and most pleasant way to reach the museum, especially given its proximity to the train station and town center.
Kendal has a bus station that is also within walking distance of the museum, offering further public transport convenience for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kendal Museum typically has standard opening hours, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date Kendal Museum opening times before your visit, as these can vary seasonally.
Admission fees are reasonable, often around £5 per adult. They may offer options for year passes if you plan on multiple visits.
Yes, the entrance fee often allows for a year pass, so you can revisit the exhibits as many times as you like within a year.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, it's worth inquiring about potential concessions for students, seniors, or group bookings.
Generally, advance booking isn't required for Kendal Museum, but for special exhibitions or peak times, it's a good idea to check their website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts diverse exhibits including a vast taxidermy collection, regional history, archaeology, geology, and rotating art displays.
Yes, children often find the taxidermy and wildlife displays fascinating. The museum also has interactive elements and historical artifacts that can engage younger visitors.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the unique exhibits. However, always check for any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas or temporary exhibitions.
Two out of the three floors are wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility challenges.
The museum hosts various art exhibitions, often featuring local artists and themes related to nature, history, or social issues, such as climate change.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kendal Museum has a small cafe on-site where you can grab refreshments and snacks.
The cafe typically offers light refreshments, coffee, tea, and snacks, perfect for a short break during your visit.
Being in the town center, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within easy walking distance of the museum for a more substantial meal.
Generally, eating is restricted to designated cafe areas. It's best to consume your own food outside the museum or at the cafe.
While specific options can vary, most cafes offer standard choices like sandwiches and pastries, with some potentially catering to dietary needs. Inquiring at the counter is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted throughout Kendal Museum, allowing you to capture its diverse exhibits.
While general photography is allowed, always be mindful of any specific signage, especially in temporary art exhibitions, where flash photography or full recording might be prohibited.
The extensive taxidermy collection, intricate geological samples, and visually striking art installations are popular subjects for photographers.
Tripod use might be restricted, especially in crowded areas or during special exhibitions. It's advisable to check with museum staff if you plan to use one.
The museum's location in Kendal offers opportunities to photograph the surrounding architecture and townscape, especially if you're interested in urban exploration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the taxidermy hall the main event for younger visitors, and then explore the other floors at their pace. The museum's central location and proximity to the train station also make it an easy addition to a family day out in Kendal without adding too much travel stress.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a packed lunch or explore the many affordable cafes and pubs in Kendal town center for dining, rather than relying on potentially pricier tourist spots. The wealth of exhibits, from history to taxidermy, ensures a fulfilling experience that doesn't break the bank.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the displays on war memorabilia and the geological samples, which add further layers to the historical context. The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse aspects of history, including art that reflects on societal changes, makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in understanding the evolution of a place and its people.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Taxidermy Collection
This collection spans various species, providing a comprehensive look at animal life. It's a testament to the museum's dedication to showcasing natural history in a tangible way. Even if taxidermy isn't your usual interest, the magnitude of this display at Kendal Museum is often enough to captivate visitors.
Kendal Museum's Historical Significance
Beyond local history, the museum also touches upon broader themes. Exhibitions have explored topics like the impact of climate change through art, demonstrating a commitment to contemporary relevance alongside historical preservation. The displays on Kendal Castle, for instance, connect the museum directly to a prominent local landmark, offering context and stories that enrich the visitor experience.
Art and Exhibitions at Kendal Museum
These art displays are not just visually appealing but also thought-provoking, often prompting discussions about nature, society, and history. The museum's partnership with local institutions like Kendal College further highlights its role in fostering artistic talent and engagement within the community. Visitors can expect a diverse range of artistic mediums and concepts, making each visit potentially unique and intellectually stimulating.




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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit