The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kendal

Kendal offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 70 easy-rated routes, perfect for families looking for manageable distances and gentle paths to explore the area.

Kendal, known as the 'Gateway to the Lake District,' provides a unique mix of historic charm and diverse natural landscapes. Families can enjoy everything from gentle riverside strolls to walks offering panoramic views, with many trails featuring points of interest like castles, woodlands, and scenic viewpoints.

The family-friendly trails around Kendal are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.56 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of many routes for different ages and abilities.

Yes, several family-friendly walks incorporate historical sites. For example, The River Kent & Kendal Castle & Church loop takes you past the ruins of Kendal Castle. Another option is the Levens Hall loop on the River Kent & the Lancaster Canal Trail, which offers views of the historic Levens Hall estate and follows parts of the disused Preston Kendal canal.

Absolutely! Kendal is surrounded by excellent viewpoints. The The Mushroom on Scout Scar – Cunswick Scar summit cairn loop offers stunning panoramic views over Kendal and the fells. Other accessible viewpoints include Brant Fell and School Knott, which provide vistas of Windermere and the broader Lakeland fells.

Yes, Serpentine Woods, located close to Kendal town center, offers peaceful trails and an engaging alphabet sculpture trail, making it a delightful option for families. The Sizergh Castle Estate also features enchanting woodlands and well-maintained paths suitable for a family outing.

Many trails around Kendal are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or near wildlife. Popular spots like Serpentine Woods, the River Kent paths, and Scout Scar generally welcome well-behaved dogs.

While many trails are gentle, some paths may be uneven. For pram-friendly options, consider flatter riverside walks along the River Kent or sections of the Lancaster Canal Trail. Serpentine Woods also offers some accessible paths. Always check specific route details for suitability with prams.

Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and blooming landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, many lower-level paths remain accessible, though conditions can be wetter and colder. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, Kendal has numerous circular routes perfect for families. The River Kent & Kendal Castle & Church loop is a great example of a shorter circular walk. For a slightly longer adventure, the Mushroom on Scout Scar – Cunswick Scar summit cairn loop also provides a rewarding circular experience with fantastic views.

Parking is generally available near popular trailheads. For walks around Kendal Castle and the River Kent, town center car parks are convenient. For Scout Scar, there are often small car parks or roadside parking areas nearby. Sizergh Castle and Low Sizergh Barn also have dedicated parking facilities for visitors.

Kendal and its surrounding areas offer several family-friendly cafes and pubs. Low Sizergh Barn, for instance, has a popular farm shop and cafe. Many establishments in Kendal town center are also welcoming to families, providing a great spot for a post-hike meal or snack. For more options, you can check visit-kendal.co.uk.