Kendal on the map
Built-up area8.4 km² (3.2 sq mi)
Location in CumbriaKendal sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Kendal
Kendal is a market town located in Cumbria, England, within the LA9 postcode area. It is situated on the banks of the River Kent and serves as a gateway to the Lake District National Park. The town has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Roman era. Kendal is known for its distinctive grey stone buildings and the remnants of its medieval castle, which provide a glimpse into its past.
The town centre features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, catering to both locals and visitors. Kendal is also famous for its mint cake, a popular energy snack among walkers and climbers. Regular markets take place in the town, offering fresh produce and local crafts. With its proximity to the Lake District, Kendal is an ideal base for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
School Ratings in Kendal
Families in Kendal have access to 28 local schools. Kendal Nursery School and Cambian Whinfell School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 9 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Kendal
Homes sell for an average of £299K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £230K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Kendal
Crime in the area is broadly in line with the national average. Shoplifting is the leading concern across Kendal, with 26 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Kendal
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Kendal among the least deprived neighbourhoods in England. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Average incomes in the area are typical for England.
Healthcare in Kendal
There are 8 GP surgeries within three miles of Kendal, the nearest being Captain French Surgery (0.2 miles away).
Local Data for Kendal
Dig deeper into the area around Kendal with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 6,395 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the LA9 postcode area.
Household Income in Kendal ONS 2023
The average total household income in Kendal is approximately £45,851 a year before tax, 17% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £35,305. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £35,305.
Businesses in Kendal ONS 2025
There are approximately 2,157 active businesses based in Kendal, around 51 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 40 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Kendal IMD 2025
According to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Kendal experiences very low levels of deprivation. The local economy supports strong employment and incomes are above the national average. Access to services, education and healthcare in the area is generally good.
Crime in Kendal 238 crimes · April 2026
Crime in Kendal is around the national average, with violence & sexual offences representing the most common offence type. These figures are characteristic of a town with an active centre and diverse population, and are neither unusually high nor particularly low.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Kendal
Of the 19,158 households in and around Kendal, 73% are owned, 11% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Kendal.