One of the characteristic features of Kendal's medieval town plan is its network of narrow yards — passages leading from the main street back to the buildings behind, each named after the family or trade that originally occupied it. Dozens of yards branch off Highgate and Stramongate, their names a partial roll call of the town's history: Elephant Yard, Websters Yard, Captain French Lane.
The yards developed because the main street frontages were valuable but space behind them was ample, so buildings grew in layers off the central spine. Many are now occupied by small shops, workshops, and restaurants that would be impossible to find from the main street alone. Exploring them is one of the genuine pleasures of a day in Kendal — part of what makes the town feel more interesting than its size might suggest. Several yards have been tastefully converted and are home to some of the best independent shops and cafes in town.