Wray Castle
A Victorian Fantasy on the Lakeshore
Wray Castle stands as one of the Lake District's most distinctive landmarks, an imposing Gothic Revival structure that rises dramatically above the western shore of Lake Windermere. Built in 1840 for Dr James Dawson, a retired Liverpool surgeon, the castle was funded by his wife's inheritance from a gin fortune. According to local lore, she took one look at the completed house and refused to live in it—a reaction that speaks to the building's theatrical, almost fantastical appearance. The castle features all the hallmarks of Victorian Gothic imagination: castellated towers, arrow slits, ruined battlements, and an impressive porte-cochere that announces its presence to anyone approaching from the grounds.A Place That Inspired a Literary Legend
Wray Castle holds particular significance in literary history as the childhood holiday home where Beatrix Potter first fell in love with the Lake District landscape. The family stayed at the castle in 1882, and the natural beauty surrounding the estate profoundly influenced Potter's artistic vision and her eventual decision to settle in the region. This connection adds a layer of cultural resonance to a visit, allowing you to walk the same grounds that inspired one of Britain's most beloved authors and illustrators.Grounds and Parkland: The True Treasure
While the castle interior is currently closed for essential refurbishment, the estate's grounds and parkland remain open and free to explore. The landscape is distinguished by specimen trees including wellingtonia, redwood, ginkgo, weeping lime and varieties of beech. A particularly notable feature is a mulberry tree planted by William Wordsworth in 1845, a tangible connection to another Romantic-era figure who cherished this landscape. Watbarrow Wood, the wooded bank between the castle and the lake, contains several pleasant paths leading through native woodland to the water's edge, where shingle beaches provide easy access to England's largest lake.Walks, Views and Lakeside Exploration
The estate serves as an excellent base for exploring the western shore of Windermere. Waymarked trails guide visitors through the grounds and parkland, with options ranging from gentle strolls to more ambitious circular walks. The panoramic views across the lake toward the eastern fells are among the finest in the Lake District, making the grounds particularly rewarding during clear weather. Many visitors use Wray as a starting point for longer walks in the surrounding area, or simply pack a picnic to enjoy lunch with views across the water. The shingle beach provides direct access to the lake itself, and the estate's position makes it an ideal stop on cycling routes along the west shore.Seasonal Character and Visitor Facilities
The grounds remain accessible throughout the year, though the castle itself closes during winter months. Joey's Café operates from a pop-up cabin, serving hot and cold drinks, vegan baked goods, locally roasted coffee and light snacks. The National Trust runs 45-minute guided Walk and Talk tours twice daily at 10:30 and 14:30, offering insights into the estate's history and heritage. An adventure play trail with hidden woodland activities appeals to younger visitors, while the open spaces and lakeside setting suit families, walkers and photographers alike. The estate welcomes dogs, making it accessible to a broad range of visitors seeking outdoor recreation in one of England's most celebrated landscapes.A brief summary to National Trust - Wray
- Ambleside, Low Wray, LA22 0JA, GB
- +441539433250
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the twice-daily Walk and Talk tours at 10:30 and 14:30 to learn the estate's history from knowledgeable National Trust guides, especially valuable since the castle interior is closed for refurbishment.
- Bring a picnic and explore Watbarrow Wood's shaded paths to the lakeshore for lunch with panoramic views across Windermere toward the eastern fells.
- Allow extra time to locate the mulberry tree planted by William Wordsworth in 1845—a remarkable connection to Romantic-era literary history within the grounds.
- Arrive early in the day to secure parking and enjoy the grounds with fewer visitors, particularly on weekends during peak season.
- Dogs are welcome throughout the grounds; the lakeside paths and open spaces make it an excellent destination for visitors traveling with pets.
Getting There
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By Car from Ambleside
From Ambleside town centre, take the A593 south toward Clappersgate, then follow the B5286 signed to Hawkshead. After approximately 2.5 miles, turn left at the signed junction to Wray Castle. The journey takes 15–20 minutes. Parking is available at the castle with pay-and-display charges: up to 2 hours £6.50, up to 4 hours £8.00, all day (4+ hours) £9.50. National Trust members park free by scanning their membership card. Note that narrow roads make the route unsuitable for coaches or large vehicles.
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By Windermere Lake Cruises
Regular passenger boat services operate from Ambleside Pier to Wray Castle, with sailings throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 30–40 minutes depending on stops. This scenic route provides views across the lake and avoids parking concerns. Fares vary seasonally; check Windermere Lake Cruises website for current pricing and timetables. Pre-booking is advised during peak season.
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By Foot from Ferry Head
A lakeside walking route follows the shingle beach and paths from Ferry Head (south of Bowness) along the western shore to Wray Castle, approximately 4 miles. The terrain is generally level but can be muddy after rain. Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on pace. This route offers continuous lake views and is popular with walkers seeking a longer approach to the estate.
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By Train and Taxi
The nearest railway station is Windermere, approximately 4 miles south. Journey time from Windermere station by taxi is approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, local bus services connect Windermere station to nearby towns; check Traveline for current routes and frequencies. This option suits visitors without a car, though advance booking of taxi services is recommended.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scafell Pike
17.1 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Lake District National Park Authority
17.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.
National Trust - Sizergh
18.0 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Honister Slate Mine
19.5 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Bowder Stone
19.6 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Aira Force Waterfall
19.7 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
19.7 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Eskdale Mill
19.8 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Levens Hall
19.9 km
Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
20.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Lodore Falls
20.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
Surprise View
20.9 km
Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ashness Bridge
21.4 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Westmorland County Showground
23.2 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Sir John Barrow Monument
23.3 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brockhole on Windermere
1.4 km
Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.
Zip World Windermere
1.5 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
1.9 km
Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.
Latterbarrow
2.0 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
Borrans Park
2.3 km
Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.
Ambleside Roman Fort
2.4 km
Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.
Ambleside Town Centre
3.3 km
Ambleside Town Centre: A vibrant market hub at Lake Windermere’s edge, blending heritage, nature, and local charm.
White Platts Recreation Ground
3.3 km
A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.
Rothay Park
3.4 km
A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.
National Trust - Townend
3.4 km
Step back into 400 years of Lake District family life at Townend, a charming farmhouse with unique books, carved furniture, and tranquil gardens.
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
3.5 km
Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.
RockShop
3.6 km
Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.
Holehird Gardens
3.6 km
Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.
The Bridge House
3.6 km
A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Golden Rule
3.7 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Gaddum
1.4 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
1.5 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
1.5 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
The Samling Hotel
1.8 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
2.4 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
Lake Road Kitchen
3.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Lucy's on a plate
3.4 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
3.4 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dodds Restaurant
3.6 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
4.4 km
A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
4.5 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Hooked Seafood
4.6 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
The Westmorland Inn
4.9 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Flying Pig Pub
4.9 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
4.5 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
4.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
4.9 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
4.9 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
4.9 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Herdy Bowness
4.9 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Mountain Warehouse
4.9 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
LAKELAND Leather
4.9 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
5.0 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Love the Lakes Bowness
5.0 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Sainsbury's
16.0 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Elephant Yard Shopping
16.1 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
16.2 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Waterstones
16.2 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
16.2 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake District Cocktail Co.
2.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Lily Bar
3.3 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Vault
3.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Talbot Bar
4.0 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
The Windermere Speakeasy
4.4 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
4.4 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
4.5 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
4.5 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
4.8 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Hole in t' Wall
4.9 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Easy Breeze
4.9 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
4.9 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Albert
4.9 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Lake View Bowness
4.9 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Fizzy Tarté
4.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
4.6 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
5.0 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
32.3 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Lounge C9
36.1 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
36.2 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
36.2 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
secret bridge
41.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
54.6 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
54.8 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
55.1 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
55.1 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Settle Working Mens Club
58.0 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
The George Inn
59.5 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Peek A Booze
64.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
64.7 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
