KENDAL has been named among the best places to live in the North West in 2024.

The Sunday Times has revealed the best places to live in the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.

It includes 72 locations across the UK, with six locations in the North West being featured in the comprehensive guide, including the Auld Grey Town.

Expert judges described Kendal as a 'disappointing town centre' which is having a 'resurgence'.

It said: "Used to make the Gateway to the Lakes a dispiriting contrast to the majesty of the scenery on its doorstep. But a burst of entrepreneurial energy is breathing new life into the 'auld grey town', which is now home to all kinds of interesting artisan businesses.

"With the fells and wild swimming spots of the Lake District on one side and fast roads and railways on the other, Kendal is a supremely practical spot for anyone eager to enjoy the great outdoors."

READ MORE: Cumbria town named one of the best to live in the northwest

Brian Burrow, owner of the Garden Cafe for five years, said there was 'support' within the businesses in Kendal.

He said: "There are a lot of businesses in Kendal, more like a business community, where we support each other.

"I suppose like all northern towns there have been a lot of big businesses pulling out but independents are coming in and taking their place slowly but surely.

"I'm hopeful that businesses will grow more. I know there are new plans for new small independents in the pipeline and that will certainly make Kendal more attractive."

On the other hand, Sandra Rodrigues, who has run her independent business Begin with Nature for seven years, says trade has gone down 'massively' in recent years.

"Covid has hurt us more than we could have even thought because people got more comfortable staying at home and they are not coming out," said the shop owner.

"I have never seen that many shops closing in Kendal - but it is not just in Kendal.

"There is nothing in town that is enticing people to come in and to spend money and the shop owners are suffering.

"I love Kendal and I'm the first one to say good things about Kendal but there are a few flaws that need to be addressed. The problem is people that are not coming out."

Peter Brendling, the manager of Kendal Business Improvement District, said it was a 'great testament' to the business owners of Kendal.

He said: "It’s wonderful to hear sure praise for Kendal and proves that Kendal is very much a destination in its own right.

"Proving that despite the current difficult climate, with the willpower to succeed, businesses can thrive and grow.

"Kendal is lucky to have a lot of people who are passionate about improving and making the most of our town."