Kendal Castle

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Kendal Castle

Westmorland

Kendal Castle at sunset.jpg
Kendal Castle at sunset
Location
Grid reference: SD522924
Location: 54°19’30"N, 2°44’11"W
Town: Kendal
History
Information
Condition: Ruined

Kendal Castle stands on a drumlin, on a mound-like hill, to the east Kendal, a town in Westmorland.

History

The castle was probably built in the late 12th century as the home of the Lancaster family who were Barons of Kendal. The best known family associated with the castle was the Parr family, from which came Queen Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII. Her family had lived at Kendal since her ancestor Sir William Parr married the heiress of Kendal, Elizabeth Ros, during the reign of King Edward III.

By the time Catherine Parr was born, the family had long deserted the castle which was already falling into disrepair. Catherine's father preferred to live in the centre of court in London. Sir Thomas's father seems to be the last of the Parrs to have lived at Kendal Castle.[1]

The building has been a ruin since Tudor times but imposing stonework remains are still present.

Today

The site is freely accessible to the public. It is managed by the local council.

Gallery

Outside links

References

  1. Linda Porter. Katherine, the Queen, Macmillan, 2010; p. 21.
  • Fry P.S. (1980). The David & Charles Book of Castles. David & Charles. ISBN 0-7153-7976-3.