First look inside Kendal's own gaming shop Beer and Pretzel

Beer and Pretzel Gaming opened to the public on August 17 at 95 and 95a Highate - the previous home of The Deli @ 95.

The shop has grown from a small table started in the indoor market of Westmorland Shopping Centre in April 2023.

Now it offers a large space for gaming aficionados for day-to-day gaming activities and a wider selection of items.

The shop offers a range of board games, card games, anime memorabilia, toys and tables available for people to play. Drinks and snacks are also available.

Speaking with the owner James Gerard-Hudson after his first week in business, he said he was 'really looking forward' to seeing how the shop goes in the future. 

He said: "I keep having some absolutely lovely conversations with everyone because this is a super nerdy area but there has just never really been anything in the area to do. It is nice to have this space and to be the one in charge."

When asked how it feels to move from the indoor market to his own premises, James said it had been a 'mix'.

The inside of the shop (Image: Filipa Gaspar, Newsquest)"I considered the shop a bit of a pipe dream especially given Kendal's high street prices so when I saw the property and where it was I was like 'I need to get it' because if I don't try it now someone else might do it sooner or later," he said.

"I do miss the market - absolutely lovely folks - but ultimately there was a bit of uncertainty with what was going on with the future of the market." 

Event and gaming nights are also hosted including a Pokémon Trainers Club every Sunday.

Beer and Pretzel Gaming is open from Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10am to 5.30pm and Friday and Sunday from 12pm to 5.30pm.