Idyllic Cumbrian town barely has any abandoned shops for one big reason
This Cumbrian market town is known for being the gateway to the Lake District, but it has another special characteristic. Visitors need only to stroll down the cobblestone streets to appreciate the distinct charm of the town.
Kendal in Cumbria was once famous for its wool producing centre - Kendal Green - but today it is known for its famous mint cake, handmade chocolates, artisan bakeries and friendly delicatessens. These independent shops and businesses and the thriving community spirit are what make Kendal so successful and special.
The town has about 70 stores, cafes, boutiques and market traders flourishing where others across the UK continue to struggle. This is a testament to the town’s civic pride, best embodied by the row of shops on the street of New Shambles. It comes after the best and worst GP surgeries across the UK were named - check your area.
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Here, the buildings are rented out by a unitarian chapel and store owners describe the street as the “heart of Kendal”. Businesses actively support each other to thrive instead of competing. Speaking to The Express, Claire Carlton, owner of Flowers By Arrangement, said: "People love coming down here. They love little independent shops and without it here, Kendal would be a boring place."
She continued: "It’s what Kendal is all about, all coming together as a community. Us little independent shops, we look after each other and that’s really important."
1 of 7 (Jonathan Buckmaster)There are many cosy coffee shops to explore in the town, including one of the oldest coffee roasting and blending shops in the country: Farrer's. They began supplying tea and coffee on Stricklandgate in Kendal in 1819.
2 of 7 (Jonathan Buckmaster)Claire said her rent was "absolutely crucifying" her and she was prepared to close her business in a previous building before she moved to the chapel-run store. “People like them are the reason us little independent shops will survive. Because the rent is more affordable, we can be more affordable," she said.
3 of 7 (Jonathan Buckmaster)Shona Nodwell praised the beauty and tranquility of Kendal. After previously living near Manchester, she says the Cumbria town is "nice and relaxing" and the proximity to the Lake District is an added bonus.
4 of 7 (Jonathan Buckmaster)Sandra Rodrigues started her Begin With Nature shop over eight years ago and explained how attracting new local shoppers is a priority. "There are still quite a few locals who don’t know about us,” she said.
Daily Mirror
