Wray Castle: Gothic Revival Charm on Lake Windermere
Explore the enchanting Victorian Gothic Revival Wray Castle and its scenic grounds on Lake Windermere’s shores.
Wray Castle is a striking Victorian Gothic Revival castle set on the shores of Lake Windermere in the Lake District, England. Owned by the National Trust since 1929, it features castellated towers, turrets, and informal grounds with lakeshore paths. While the castle interior is closed for refurbishment in 2025, the extensive grounds, woodland trails, and lakeside views remain open for exploration, complemented by family-friendly play areas and a café.
A brief summary to National Trust - Wray
- Ambleside, Low Wray, LA22 0JA, GB
- +441539433250
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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 the grounds and woodland trails for free and enjoy scenic lakeside walks even while the castle interior is closed.
- Join the daily guided 'Walk and Talk' tours at 10:30 or 14:30 to learn about the estate's history and natural features.
- Stop by Joey’s Café for locally roasted coffee, vegan baked goods, and light snacks in a cozy setting.
- Parking is free for National Trust members; non-members can use pay-and-display with rates up to £9.50 for all day.
- Explore the arboretum to see rare specimen trees including a mulberry planted by William Wordsworth.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Ambleside to Wray Castle takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A593 and B5286 roads. Parking is available on-site with pay-and-display charges up to £9.50 for all-day parking; National Trust members park free by scanning their membership card. Note that roads are narrow and not suitable for coaches.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Windermere station, then a local bus or taxi to Wray Castle, about 10 km away. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. This option takes roughly 30-45 minutes from Windermere station.
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Boat
During warmer months, Windermere Lake Cruises operate regular boat services from Ambleside Waterhead to Wray Castle’s landing stage. This scenic route takes about 30 minutes and offers a unique lakeside arrival experience.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a 4-mile lakeshore walk from Ferry Head near Bowness to Wray Castle offers mostly off-road paths with gentle terrain. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour walk through beautiful countryside and lakeside scenery.
National Trust - Wray location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Wray
A Victorian Neo-Gothic Landmark by the Lake
Wray Castle stands prominently above Lake Windermere as a grand example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Built to resemble a medieval fortress, the castle features imposing castellated towers, arrow slits, and a porte-cochere that evokes a romanticized past. Despite its name, Wray Castle was never a true fortress but a country house designed to impress. It has belonged to the National Trust since 1929, gifted by Sir Noton Barclay, and has been open to the public since 2011, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.Exploring the Grounds and Natural Beauty
The castle’s extensive grounds are a highlight for visitors, featuring informal parkland, woodland walks, and a long stretch of shingle beach along Lake Windermere’s edge. The arboretum contains specimen trees such as redwoods, gingko, and a mulberry tree planted by William Wordsworth in 1845. Watbarrow Wood, nestled between the castle and the lake, offers peaceful trails leading to panoramic lake views. The grounds are ideal for family adventures, with an outdoor play trail and hidden activities in the woods, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and children alike.Current Visitor Experience and Facilities
In 2025, the castle interior remains closed for refurbishment, with only the ground floor accessible to visitors, providing glimpses of its former grandeur. The focus inside has shifted towards interactive and child-friendly exhibits rather than traditional historic house displays. Joey’s Café operates nearby, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and vegan baked goods in a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Visitors can join daily guided 'Walk and Talk' tours of the grounds at 10:30 and 14:30 to learn about the estate’s history and natural features.Heritage Conservation and Restoration Efforts
Wray Castle is undergoing significant restoration to preserve its historic fabric and enhance visitor facilities. The National Trust’s Specialist Craft Centre is carefully restoring original timber elements and ironmongery, especially focusing on the castle’s iconic glasshouse windows. These efforts not only conserve the building but also support traditional craftsmanship, ensuring that heritage skills continue to thrive. The grounds have also seen restoration work to revive their original 19th-century character and improve visitor access to scenic viewpoints.Setting and Surrounding Attractions
Situated in Low Wray near Ambleside, Wray Castle offers easy access to the wider Lake District National Park. The castle is a gateway to lakeside cycling routes, such as the ride to Claife Viewing Station, and numerous circular walks through countryside and woodland. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of England’s largest lake and explore nearby historic sites and villages. The castle’s lakeshore location provides a tranquil escape with opportunities for picnics, birdwatching, and photography.Seasonal Access and Visitor Information
The grounds of Wray Castle are open daily from early morning until evening, while Joey’s Café operates Wednesday to Sunday. Parking is available with pay-and-display for non-National Trust members, while members park free. The castle interior is closed for refurbishment throughout 2025, so visitors should check current opening times before planning a visit. The site welcomes dogs on the grounds and offers family-friendly facilities, making it an accessible destination year-round.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
