Low-cost and free activities starting or ending in Wainwright’s Yard in Kendal include browsing the £1 paperbacks at the Lions Bookstore, exploring the historic medieval yards and lanes, and taking a
scenic walk up to Kendal Castle for panoramic views.

Budget-Friendly Walks and Sights

Grab a convenient, high-quality picnic by picking up the flexible four-item food-to-go bundle at Booths in Wainwright’s Yard. Their meal deal is £6.00 for a main, 2 snacks and a 1 drink.
Then set off to explore the town – here are some ideas:

Kendal Summer Trail! It’s live NOW, ready for you to have a go whenever you like, all summer until 6 September. Collect a map from Armstrong Ward in Wainwright’s Yard, and also a free goodie. Follow the map to find all the posters and complete the 5 fun trail tasks. Enjoy treats along the way where you see the sign. When you’re done hand your completed trail and competition entry form in to the Kiosk Desk in Booths for your chance to WIN a weekly prize worth £20!

Kendal Castle Walk – Castle Adventure & Picnic. A free, gentle 2 km round-trip hike from the town centre up to the 12th-century castle ruins, offering a great spot for a view-filled picnic. The Route:
Walk from Wainwright’s Yard across the River Kent via the footbridge. Follow the signs up the hill.

Historic Yards Self-Guided Tour – Duck straight out of Wainwright’s Yard into a 45-minute wander through Kendal’s unique medieval alleyways and ginnels like Branthwaite Brow and Collin Croft.
Riverside Stroll & Playground Stop. Walk the River Kent Path to Abbot Hall Park, on a flat, buggy-accessible path. Head down Finkle Street on to Kent Street and leave the road to walk alongside the
river, you’ll pass the Waterside Cafe & Bistro. In about 10 mins you’ll be at Abbot Hall Park which features a fantastic children’s playground and plenty of open grass for a picnic.

Low-Cost Local Shopping

Kendal and District Lions Bookshop. Located directly in Wainwright’s Yard, paperbacks here cost just £1.00 (cash only) and children’s books are from 50p. You’ll also find jigsaw puzzles from £1.00, CD’s from 50p and DVD’s from 10p.

Keep your weekly shop affordable with a Booths card. You get savings on everyday essentials like milk, bakery, and fresh produce. Also, your first hour of parking is free if you use their carpark – and
you get a second hour free if you visit the café – be sure to mention the parking to café staff.