Holy Trinity

The current building, dating from the early 13th century, and stretching over five aisles, has many a story to tell. It is an active parish church serving the 'Auld Grey Town' of Kendal and the wider area, and a place of spiritual sanctuary and living heritage.

Visitors are struck both by the lightness of the interior and by its five aisles. Although the current church dates to the early 13th century, the shaft of an cross dating to the mid 9th century and housed in the church, suggests that there has been a church on the site for well over a thousand years.

Here you can hear of the Parr family of Kendal castle, whose most famous member was Queen Katherine Parr, the Stricklands of Sizergh and the Bellingham family. Here, too, you can hear the story of Robert Philipson (Robin, the Devil) who rode into church in pursuit of his enemy, Colonel Briggs, and about the glazier who had to be employed full time to mend the windows broken by boys on their way to school in the 17th century. And who is the ‘Amiable Youth’ whose monument lies at the west end of the church?

Kendal parish is home to the Border Regiment Chapel and houses the colours of the 55th Westmorland Regiment of Foot. It is also known as the ‘Church of the Angels’, whose brightly coloured figures decorate the church roof and tell stories of faith and local families. Other things to see include the memorial to the painter, George Romney, who lived near the church, the beautiful stained glass, and the steel ‘Crown of Thorns’ dedicated to Bernard Gilpin, the ‘Apostle of the North’, who came from nearby Kentmere.

There is lots to explore here, but most of all this is a living church. Visitors remark on the warmth and peace of the building which speak of the love and peace of God. We hope you will come and visit this special place.