Business Details
Explore Kendal Museum's Galleries & Exhibits
Kendal Museum is a cultural and educational institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing natural history, art, and regional heritage. Our mission is to inspire curiosity and lifelong learning through immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and community engagement. With galleries such as the World Wildlife Gallery, Kendal & Westmorland Gallery, and Geology & Fossil Collection, we offer visitors a unique journey through time and nature. Our team of experts and volunteers work tirelessly to create engaging experiences, from temporary exhibitions to educational programs for all ages. We are committed to accessibility, inclusivity, and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared cultural and natural heritage.Recent refurbishments reflect our dedication to enhancing visitor comfort and modernising our facilities while maintaining historical integrity. Through partnerships with local organisations and institutions like Kendal College, we strive to strengthen community ties and provide accessible learning resources. Our temporary exhibitions, such as Ex Natura by Nicole Bishop and Kendal Green, highlight contemporary artistic interpretations alongside traditional collections. Visitor feedback consistently praises our diverse exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and family-friendly atmosphere. As a hub for education and cultural exchange, Kendal Museum remains a cornerstone of the Kendal community.
Services
World Wildlife Gallery
Kendal & Westmorland Gallery
Geology & Fossil Collection
Educational Programs
Exhibitions
Volunteer Opportunities
Events & Activities
Membership Programs
Donation Opportunities
Community Hall Hire
Highlights and features
- We offer immersive exhibits spanning global wildlife and local history
- Our team provides expert-led educational programs for all ages
- We host contemporary art exhibitions alongside traditional collections
- Our volunteers deliver exceptional visitor engagement and support
- We maintain strong community partnerships for enriched cultural experiences
What people say
Fabulous visit
Friendly and helpful staff
Variety of exhibits
Marvelous place
Interactive displays
Services
World Wildlife Gallery
Our World Wildlife Gallery showcases global biodiversity through taxidermy displays and interactive exhibits. Visitors explore ecosystems from polar regions to tropical forests, learning about conservation efforts and species adaptation. The gallery combines historical specimens with modern interpretive techniques to create an engaging educational experience.
Kendal & Westmorland Gallery
This gallery explores Kendal's rich heritage through archaeological finds, historical artifacts, and regional artworks. Exhibits trace the area's development from prehistoric times to the present day. Interactive displays and curated collections highlight local industries, notable residents, and cultural evolution.
Educational Programs
We offer curriculum-linked workshops and hands-on learning experiences for schools and groups. Programs cover natural history, archaeology, and art, using our collections to enhance classroom learning. Specialist staff deliver sessions tailored to different age groups and educational needs.
Temporary Exhibitions
Our rotating exhibitions feature contemporary art, historical themes, and scientific collections. Recent shows include Ex Natura by Nicole Bishop and Kendal Green, blending traditional and modern perspectives. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives on cultural and natural heritage.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play vital roles in gallery engagement, collections management, and event support. We provide training and development for roles ranging from visitor services to behind-the-scenes conservation work. Our volunteer program fosters community involvement and skills development in museum practices.
Questions
What are Kendal Museum's opening hours?
We're open Thursday to Saturday, 9am–4:30pm. Check our website for seasonal variations and special closures.
Are there family-friendly activities available?
Yes! We offer interactive exhibits, children's trails, and special events like our Easter egg hunt for family visits.
How can I get involved with the museum?
Join our volunteer program, become a Friend of the Museum, or participate in community events and workshops.
What accessibility features do you offer?
We provide wheelchair access, sensory resources, and accessible facilities. Contact us for specific requirements.
Do you host temporary exhibitions?
Yes, we regularly feature contemporary art and special theme exhibitions alongside our permanent collections.
Is there a café on site?
Our café offers refreshments and light meals during opening hours, with outdoor seating available in good weather.
Reviews (7)
Mark Naish
Nov 08, 2021
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Great little local museum, with an eclectic mix of exhibits. It has lots of small, presumably donated private collections, everything from, prehistoric artefacts, fossils, geological samples, coin hoards, and a large collection of taxidermy creatures, fish, insects, mammals, birds etc. I think for 12+ upwards age group, and maybe not for some folk, but we found it interesting, and informative.
An enjoyable visit.
An enjoyable visit.
Philip Foxe
Oct 13, 2021
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A good museum to me should speak of the history of the place. The Lake District has a rich history economic and cultural through the centuries. There is little evidence of this here. It's a bunch of old stuff, some stones, and a lot of stuffed animals. A missed opportunity.
Wayne Singleton
Oct 09, 2021
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Amazing welcome, great staff, love the halloween trail, and the mandatory 'child with polar bear' photo was taken. Learn something new every time i go, and i've been LOADS over the years. Thanks Kendal Museum!
Lizi Dorney
Oct 09, 2021
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What a fabulous hidden gem. Lovely staff and brilliant ideas in the pipeline for a new cafe. Currently open Thurs, Friday and Saturday. Check times before going. Under 5s free.
Dylan Taylor
Sep 30, 2021
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Fantastic little museum with lots of interesting pieces from a range of subjects. The taxidermy section was brilliant and packed full of information. Definitely something for everyone.
Val Ramsey Briers
Sep 10, 2021
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What an amazing place so much history and the biggest collection of taxidermy I have ever seen, allowing you to get up close to creatures you rarely see and some we will never see again a brilliant experience
Sarah Little
Jul 10, 2021
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What an amazing little find! Lots of different bits and pieces, our favourite was the wildlife section, they also have a detective trail for the kids with a little prize at the end
