Zip up your gilet and strap on your tabis: it’s adventure time at the Kendal Mountain Festival
Take a trip to the entrance of the Lake District for the UK’s largest adventure festival.
How to get there
Kendal has a small train station with a few direct trains to Manchester Airport. Head to Oxenholme from major cities and grab a short train that will take you directly to Kendal.
Accessibility
Please check individual events of accessibility information or email info@mountainfestival.com
Where to eat
Ye Olde Fleece Inn is one on the oldest pubs in Kendall, with a cosy fire and gastro menu. Alternatively, try one of the only ‘Drive-Thru’ Thai restaurants in the UK at Thai Kitchen, great for eating on the go.
More information
Get your gorpcore on: we’re partying up a mountain. And where better to enjoy a four-day celebration of everything outdoors than at a festival in the picturesque village of Kendal at the edge of the Lake District?
What’s coming round the mountain?
Kendal Mountain Festival boasts an impressive number of events with over 200 speakers including TV presenter and marathon runner Helen Skelton on the mental health benefits of adventuring, the British Olympic cycling team reminiscing of their achievement and inspirational stories, and mountaineer and writer Stephen Venables’ recount of his Everest climbs. Also on offer comes 80 free events, activities, talks and even 6 parties to blow off steam with mates new and old. Even better, each of these events are individually ticketed so you can fully customise your experience of the festival with a mix of free and ticketed events.
Adventure is out there, even in Kendal
The biggest part of an adventure festival is the adventuring. Try something new or challenge yourself with the 10k trail run around the stunning Kendal village area. Witness the stone built high street, serene river, and ruins of Kendal Castle over views of rolling plains leading deeper into the Lake District. This event is hugely popular with entrants and supporters, selling out last year and with already over 900 participants, this year is set to be great. Make sure to sign up early.
Chill out at Basecamp
Take a trip to Basecamp in Abbot Hall Park to enjoy free talks from athletes, adventurers, and explorers, hang out at the social hub with a beer and live music, or, if you’re feeling brave, pit yourself against your mates in one of the many competitions, although, maybe compete before the beer? With great prizes, including North Face goodies up for grabs, make sure to get involved.
Despite all the great get-up-and-go activities, if you’re in the mood for a rest, take a pew at the Rab Cinemas to enjoy the film festival programme. Short films featuring the different paths we take on our adventures and inspiring depictions from all over the world will be premiered at this event. A great way to kick back with friends after a morning of activities.
Kendal Mountain Festival is running for four days this November, perfect for an autumn weekend getaway before Christmas closes in.
