Philosophy in Kendal

20 years ago Kendal had its' own thriving philosophy group based at the Brewery Arts Centre. 'Philosophy at the Brewery' was originally self funding but soon gained financial support from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, and for the last few years, Lancaster University. The group revolved around monthly meetings throughout the year with visiting speakers invited from around the UK. For several years we also organised an Introduction to Philosophy course in the Autumn Term. In the mid 1990s funding was withdrawn, key people moved away from the area or found themselves with other commitments and the group sadly folded.


5 years ago Kendal Castle Philosophy arose from the ashes of Philosophy at the Brewery and normally meets on the third Friday of each month at 7.30pm at the Castle St Centre, Kendal. Sessions are usually run in house with the members of the group either giving a short paper or leading a discussion on a particular piece of writing. In November 2008 Michael Bavidge from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne kindly spoke to our group and we hope to attract more speakers in the future.

Our next meeting is on Friday 21st January 2011 at 7.30pm when Michael Atkinson will give an informal paper on the philosophy of mental health.

On Thursday 17th February 2011 Mike Bavidge (Formely of the Centre for Continuing Education at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne) will give an informal paper with the title "The day that James Boswell dropped in on the dying David Hume".

Everyone is welcome, no experience is necessary, and discussion usually carries on beyond 9.30pm in the Castle Inn next door! For further details please contact Michael Atkinson on 015395 67282.