
Quaker Tapestry Museum
Discover Quaker history and values through stunning, community-created textile art in a uniquely peaceful setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection

Quaker Tapestry Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Quaker history and values through stunning, community-created textile art in a uniquely peaceful setting.
"A moving experience seeing the exhibition with a wonderful peaceful atmosphere."

Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself 2+ hours to absorb the stories and details in the tapestries and videos. :clock1:
Park Nearby
The museum's car park is small; opt for nearby parking for convenience. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quaker History Tapestries
Vivid textile narratives detailing Quaker values, history, and social justice moments. Simple techniques, profound stories.

Local Tapestry Showcase
Admire intricate works made in Kendal, celebrating local talent and community involvement in textile art.

Peaceful Atmosphere
Experience a uniquely tranquil environment that invites reflection and appreciation for the craft.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stitch
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself 2+ hours to absorb the stories and details in the tapestries and videos. :clock1:
Park Nearby
The museum's car park is small; opt for nearby parking for convenience. :car:
Enjoy the Cafe
A peaceful cafe is adjacent, perfect for coffee and a break. :coffee:
Fiber Art Inspiration
Great for fans of embroidery, quilting, and textile art. DIY kits available! :thread:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time
Give yourself 2+ hours to absorb the stories and details in the tapestries and videos. :clock1:
Park Nearby
The museum's car park is small; opt for nearby parking for convenience. :car:
Enjoy the Cafe
A peaceful cafe is adjacent, perfect for coffee and a break. :coffee:
Fiber Art Inspiration
Great for fans of embroidery, quilting, and textile art. DIY kits available! :thread:
Community Craft
See how community efforts create powerful art. Workshops sometimes available! :woman_artist:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Quaker Tapestry Museum for its unique and moving portrayal of Quaker history and values through intricate textile art. The peaceful atmosphere and the adjacent cafe are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a recommended stop for those interested in fiber arts, history, or a moment of quiet reflection.
"Found this place quite by accident. Glad I did. A peaceful little cafe included, where you can relax and get a nice coffee. Reasonably priced with a menu that should suit most. If I'm ever back in the area, I'll certainly visit again."
Bruno Casalucra
"Lots of beautiful embroidery or tapestry that showcase the values and history of Quaker culture. Simple techniques with outstanding results. If you’re a fan of fiber arts, embroidery, history, or religion you’ll probably find this small collection interesting."
Lisa Kieffer
"A very interesting museum encapsulating Quaker history in a series of tapestries, supplemented by some videos. Spent a couple of hours there. Pretty much all in one big room. Very small car park; best to park nearby. Very pleasant cafe immediately adjacent."
Geoff Buck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Kendal. While there's a small on-site car park, visitors often find it easier to park in nearby public car parks. Public transport options to Kendal are also available, with the museum being a short walk from the town center.
Yes, there is a small car park directly at the museum. However, it can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to have a backup plan for parking in one of Kendal's public car parks if needed.
Kendal is accessible by train and bus. From the town center, the museum is a pleasant walk. Check local bus routes for the most convenient stops near the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and the museum sometimes undergoes rehangs or closures for updates. It's always best to check the official Quaker Tapestry Museum website or their social media for the most current opening times before your visit.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, reflecting the size and nature of the museum. Check the museum's official website for the latest ticket prices and any potential concessions.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy, especially during peak seasons or for special events.
The museum strives to be accessible. Information regarding accessibility, including wheelchair access and facilities, can typically be found on their website or by contacting them directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a series of large, intricate tapestries that visually narrate the history, values, and significant events of Quakerism. You'll also find supplementary videos and displays, including local tapestry works.
Most visitors find that a couple of hours is sufficient to explore the tapestries, watch the videos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
While the primary focus is on viewing the tapestries, the museum offers a deeply engaging experience through its storytelling. DIY tapestry making kits are also available in the shop, allowing for a hands-on creative outlet.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask a member of staff. Often, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use.
The museum is renowned for its incredibly peaceful and reflective atmosphere, making it a calming escape for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a pleasant cafe located immediately adjacent to the museum, offering a nice spot to relax with a coffee and a bite to eat.
The cafe typically offers a selection of coffees, teas, cakes, and light meals, catering to most tastes.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. However, you can usually enjoy your own refreshments in designated areas or at the adjacent cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
The tapestries themselves are the main photographic subjects, showcasing intricate details and vibrant storytelling. The peaceful ambiance also lends itself to atmospheric shots. Remember to check photography rules.
Policies on photography can vary. While flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the textiles, non-flash photography for personal use might be allowed. Always look for signs or ask staff.
The museum is laid out to allow good viewing angles of all the tapestries. Consider capturing close-ups of the stitching detail as well as wider shots of the entire panels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking can be a consideration, so planning your arrival and potential nearby parking is advisable. The adjacent cafe provides a good spot for a family break. For younger children, the visual nature of the tapestries might hold attention for shorter periods, but the overall peaceful environment is conducive to a calm outing.
🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts
Beyond admiring the tapestries, the museum shop often sells DIY kits, allowing you to try your hand at similar techniques. Keep an eye out for any calligraphy or textile workshops that might be hosted at or near the museum, as these offer a deeper dive into creative expression.
🤔 History & Culture Buffs
Beyond the Quaker narrative, the museum also celebrates local textile artistry, offering insight into the craft traditions of the Kendal area. The supplementary videos and displays add layers of historical context, making it a rich experience for those interested in cultural heritage and the evolution of artistic expression.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Quaker Storytelling
Visitors often describe the experience as deeply moving and inspiring. The sheer scale and detail of the tapestries, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of the museum, create an environment conducive to reflection. The use of simple techniques to achieve such powerful storytelling is a recurring theme in visitor feedback, highlighting the profound impact of collective effort and artistic dedication.
Beyond the main exhibition, the museum often supplements the visual narrative with videos and displays that offer further context. They also showcase local tapestry works, celebrating the ongoing tradition of textile art within the community. This blend of historical narrative and contemporary craft makes the Quaker Tapestry Museum a compelling destination for anyone interested in art, history, or the enduring power of community-driven projects.
Visiting Kendal: Beyond the Tapestry
For those interested in crafts and local produce, Kendal hosts various markets and independent shops. The museum's location also makes it a convenient stop for those planning to explore the wider Lake District National Park. The nearby Farfield Mill, for instance, is another hub for textile arts and crafts, offering a complementary experience.
When planning your trip, consider combining your museum visit with a stroll through Kendal's town center. The availability of a pleasant cafe adjacent to the museum and the general welcoming atmosphere of the town make it an enjoyable day out or a relaxing stopover.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit