Kendal, Administrative center in Westmorland and Furness, England.
Kendal is an administrative center in Westmorland and Furness, England, situated along the River Kent valley with steep streets climbing toward a central high street lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings. The streets branch off from the main axis into narrow lanes and courtyards where shops and homes sit side by side.
The settlement received market rights in 1189 and grew into a center for wool trade during the medieval period, supported by the River Kent and its position on old trading routes. After textile production declined in the 19th century, it became the administrative seat for South Lakeland and later for Westmorland and Furness.
The name comes from the River Kent, with 'dale' meaning valley in Old Norse, reflecting the town's position at the foot of the Cumbrian fells. Locals still gather at the market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, a tradition that has continued for over eight centuries.
The town hall and South Lakeland House offer services for residents of Westmorland and Furness district, with both buildings located near the high street. The streets climb steeply, so sturdy footwear is recommended when exploring the different levels of the town.
Samuel Gawith & Co operates a snuff factory where 18th-century machinery remains in use today, making it among the oldest functioning industrial equipment in the world. The factory sits by the riverbank and still uses water-powered rollers to grind tobacco.
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