Museum of Lakeland Life, Kendal
Abbot Hall
Kendal
Cumbria
LA9 5AL
England
Website
Telephone
01539 722464
Fax
01539 722494
The Museum of Lakeland Life tells the story of how people have lived and worked in the Lake District, from the late eighteenth century until more recent years. It is housed in the stable block of the Georgian Abbot Hall Art Gallery, and is managed by the Lakeland Arts Trust. The Museum was opened in 1971 by Princess Alexandra, and is now the registered office of the Arthur Ransome Society. The Museum's well stocked shop sells local foodstuffs, photographic prints, Lake District craft items, traditional toys,books and a wide range of greetings cards and postcards.
Venue Type:
Museum
Abbot Hall
Kendal
Cumbria
LA9 5AL
England
Website
Telephone
01539 722464
Fax
01539 722494
Recreated farmhouse rooms and workshops tell the story of Lakeland folk, who lived in relative isolation before the arrival of motorcars and trains. The importance of sheep-farming and the related wool-trade, as well as mining and industry, to the area is shown through a combination of real artefacts and photography. A recreation of author Arthur Ransome's study, complete with his personal papers and posessions, tells the story of his fascination with the Lakes, and an Arts & Crafts area highlights the importance of figures like John Ruskin had on the revival of local crafts. Parts of the collection that are not on permanent display can be seen by prior arrangement.
Collection details
Agriculture, Archives, Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Industry, Medicine, Personalities, Photography, Science and Technology, Social History
Key artists and exhibits
- Joseph Hardman
- Arthur Ransome
- Arts & Crafts in Cumbria
- Simpsons of Kendal
- Stanley Davies
- Annie Garnett
Collections services
- General guide to collections available
- Specialist publications on collections available
- Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)
Abbot Hall
Kendal
Cumbria
LA9 5AL
England
Website
Telephone
01539 722464
Fax
01539 722494
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Industrial Woodland Display
Despite its tranquil appearance today, the broad-leaved woodland of this region was once at the heart of the industrial revolution in Lakeland. It was intensively coppiced to provide raw materials for industry, both locally and further afield. The display provides an insight into coppicing, charcoal production and swill basket-making and includes a short film showcasing the work of Owen Jones, the last full time swill basket maker.
Suitable for
- All ages
When
10:30am-5pm
Admission
Adults £4.75, Gift Aid It for £5.25 / Children over 5 and full-time students £3.40, Gift Aid It for £3.75 / Family £13.60, Gift Aid It for £15.00 (2 Adults & 4 Children)
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Victorian Costume: 1837 to 1901 Display
The Museum of Lakeland Life has an impressive collection of costume and this display allows us to showcase some of our best Victorian pieces. See the changing shape of fashion through Queen Victoria’s reign, from crinolines to bodices and bonnets to leg of mutton sleeves.
Suitable for
- All ages
When
10:30am-5pm
Admission
Adults £4.75, Gift Aid It for £5.25 / Children over 5 and full-time students £3.40, Gift Aid It for £3.75 / Family £13.60, Gift Aid It for £15.00 (2 Adults & 4 Children)
Abbot Hall
Kendal
Cumbria
LA9 5AL
England
Website
Telephone
01539 722464
Fax
01539 722494
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Craft Demonstrations
Every Wednesday during school holidays, the Museum is brought to life as craftsmen and craftswomen demonstrate the rich heritage of the Lake District. Demonstrations include lace-making, rag rugging, swill basket-making and woodworking. Owen Jones is the last full time Swill Basket Maker and demonstrates how to make this type of vernacular basket, which is unique to the Southern Lake District.
Suitable for
- All ages
When
11am-2pm
Admission
FREE with admission. Date and time may change, if you are planning a visit to a demonstration we advise you to phone first.
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Craft Demonstrations
Every Wednesday during school holidays, the Museum is brought to life as craftsmen and craftswomen demonstrate the rich heritage of the Lake District. Demonstrations include lace-making, rag rugging, swill basket-making and woodworking. Owen Jones is the last full time Swill Basket Maker and demonstrates how to make this type of vernacular basket, which is unique to the Southern Lake District.
Suitable for
- All ages
When
11am-2pm
Admission
FREE with admission. Date and time may change, if you are planning a visit to a demonstration we advise you to phone first.
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Craft Demonstrations
Every Wednesday during school holidays, the Museum is brought to life as craftsmen and craftswomen demonstrate the rich heritage of the Lake District. Demonstrations include lace-making, rag rugging, swill basket-making and woodworking. Owen Jones is the last full time Swill Basket Maker and demonstrates how to make this type of vernacular basket, which is unique to the Southern Lake District.
Suitable for
- All ages
When
11am-2pm
Admission
FREE with admission. Date and time may change, if you are planning a visit to a demonstration we advise you to phone first.
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Children’s Workshop: Press On!
Step back in time and discover how the Westmorland Gazette used to be printed. Create your own printed story or article based on a visit to The Museum of Lakeland Life. Activities are designed to encourage children to engage with contemporary and historical works. Materials included. Booking is essential as places are limited. Please note under 12s must be accompanied by an adult (standard admission applies).
Suitable for
- Especially for children
When
2-3:30pm
Admission
Activities cost £2.00 per child, materials are included.
Event Booking: Tel. 01539 722464
Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry - Children’s Workshop: Spooky Shadow Puppets
Make your own spooky Halloween shadow puppets inspired by the Museums Collection of Victorian Toys. Activities are designed to encourage children to engage with contemporary and historical works. Materials included. Booking is essential as places are limited. Please note under 12s must be accompanied by an adult (standard admission applies).
Suitable for
- Especially for children
When
2-3:30pm
Admission
Activities cost £2.00 per child, materials are included.
Event Booking: Tel. 01539 722464
Abbot Hall
Kendal
Cumbria
LA9 5AL
England
Website
Telephone
01539 722464
Fax
01539 722494
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