Bootleggers Kendal - Live music bar, restaurant and cafe

Bootleggers Kendal is a legendary venue in the heart of Kendal, which has been transformed into a stylish gastronomic and musical hub following a large-scale renovation. Located in a historic building on Market Place in the United Kingdom, it combines a cozy bar, a 150-seat restaurant, and a state-of-the-art concert venue.

Bootleggers Kendal. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The venue's main pride is its technical equipment. Over £700,000 was invested in the reconstruction, a significant portion of which went toward professional sound and lighting comparable to the UK's major stages. Inside, visitors will find a well-thought-out space: from a cozy "snug" area to a spacious balcony offering an excellent view of the performing artists.

The culinary concept of Bootleggers Kendal centers around Mediterranean tapas. Chef Richard Hall, who has experience in elite Alpine restaurants and on cruise liners, creates vibrant dishes with Spanish, Italian, and French influences. This spot is perfect for both a quiet dinner and a lively evening set to the sounds of live music.

To check the performance schedule or book a table in the restaurant area of Bootleggers Kendal, you can use the following contact details:

The main draw for visitors at Bootleggers Kendal is the live performances. The venue regularly hosts concerts by British and international bands, and on weekends, the stage comes alive with tribute shows and local talent. You can grab a seat in the VIP balcony area to watch the show from above or join the dancing right by the stage, which has been redesigned for even better views.

If you appreciate gastronomic pleasures, be sure to try the tapas menu. The small-plate format allows you to sample a variety of Mediterranean flavors in one sitting. The bar offers an excellent selection of local craft beers and ales that highlight the character of the Lake District. Dinner here seamlessly transitions into a party: after 8:00 PM, the atmosphere becomes more club-like as DJs take over.

The venue is also an excellent choice for private celebrations. The restaurant area can be rented for events, combining high-quality cuisine with professional musical accompaniment. Don't forget to notice the interior details—the updated "green room" for artists and the cozy bar niches create a unique charm, blending an old building with modern features.

Bootleggers Kendal is located in the very heart of the town at 13 Market Place. Its position on the main market square makes it easily accessible for pedestrians. If you are in the center, a walk from the main bus station will take only 5–10 minutes through picturesque historic streets.

For those traveling from further afield, such as London or Manchester, the best route is to take a train to the Oxenholme Lake District interchange station. From there, you can reach the center of Kendal by taxi or local bus in about 10 minutes. The club entrance is located next to the Skipton Building Society and opens directly onto the pedestrian zone.

Drivers are recommended to leave their vehicles in one of the nearby parking lots, as the venue itself is in a restricted traffic zone. The most convenient options are Allhallows Head or Market Place Car Park, both located just a few minutes' walk from the entrance.

The original Bootleggers club opened its doors in 1998 thanks to the efforts of Jonty Martindale. For decades, this place was a cult destination for rock 'n' roll and live music fans. In 2024, a new chapter in the venue's history began when the Westmorland Group invested approximately £700,000 in a massive renovation to transform it into a modern multi-format complex.

During the reconstruction, the venue expanded by merging with the neighboring building at No. 13 Market Place. Builders faced challenges due to the age of the structures, literally cutting through ancient walls to create a seamless space containing the bar, restaurant, and stage. The updated venue received professional sound and lighting equipment worth £150,000, bringing it up to the level of the country's best concert halls.

The official opening of the renovated Bootleggers Kendal took place on October 26, 2024. The first major event on the new stage was a performance by an ABBA tribute band, symbolizing the return of this legendary spot to the town's cultural life. Today, the owners carefully preserve the traditions of the past while complementing them with modern comfort and high levels of service.

If you just want to stop by for a drink and appreciate the renovated interior of Bootleggers Kendal, 40–60 minutes should be plenty. This is enough time to enjoy a cup of coffee or a local ale and admire the building's historic stonework.

However, if you are planning a full evening out, allow 2 to 3 hours. This will let you slowly enjoy Mediterranean tapas in the restaurant area before moving closer to the stage for a live music performance. On nights with major concerts or themed parties, guests often spend the entire evening here until late at night.

The operating hours of Bootleggers Kendal are geared toward evening leisure. The main activity occurs on Fridays and Saturdays, when the venue is open from 17:00 to 02:00. On Sundays, there are often daytime music sessions, making the bar a great place to wrap up the weekend.

Please note that the kitchen usually takes tapas orders until 20:00. As the performance schedule and special events can change, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the club's official website before planning your visit.

Exploring the surroundings of Market Place can significantly enrich your trip. Kendal is famous for its ancient architecture and cozy yards that hold the stories of many generations of Lake District residents.

After visiting Bootleggers Kendal, be sure to take a stroll to the ruins of the ancient castle or check out the unusual monuments located within walking distance.