WORK to make Kendal Castle more accessible is set to begin next week as part of a general improvement project.

Most of the work will focus on improving paths which have been widened or diverted by walkers avoiding muddy sections.

Paths will be re-surfaced and re-aligned to follow their original routes, allowing grass to re-grow in many parts of the castle site.

Contractors will be onsite from Monday (Feb 6) and, weather permitting, will finish the improvements by the end of March.

The project is being led by Kendal Town Council which has worked closely with Historic England, custodians of the site, to ensure the correct Scheduled Ancient Monument permissions are in place. Additional funding has been received from South Lakeland District Council and Cumbria County Council.

In addition to improved path surfaces, the castle's interpretation and signage will be upgraded to tell the story of the former home of the Parr family, the most famous member of which was the last wife of Henry VIII.

Project manager Helen Moriarty, said: “Kendal Town Council are thrilled to benefit from SLDC and CCC grants to improve the access to and interpretation of Kendal Castle.

"We look forward to re-telling the castle’s history and improving signage to present it as one of Kendal’s treasured historic sites. With improved access from Parr Street, and the launch of Kendal’s Historic Trail, this funding enables more people to explore and enjoy Kendal Castle.”

Kendal town councillor, Tom Clare said: “The town council has been very keen to take the lead on these improvements and to ensure our monies attracted others.

"We look forward to seeing more people, both residents and visitors, enjoying the site and its spectacular views of the countryside around Kendal.”

Kendal Castle features on Kendal’s new Historical Trail and it is hoped that once the works have been completed visitors to the town will recommend the castle as an ideal place to enjoy a picnic and scenic views.