Wray Castle and Estate: Gothic Revival Charm on Windermere's Shores
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Windermere, Wray Castle is a striking Gothic Revival building surrounded by expansive parkland, woodland walks, and lakeshore paths. Though the castle itself is closed for refurbishment in 2025, visitors can explore the informal grounds, enjoy panoramic views, and visit Joey’s Café. The estate offers rich natural beauty, historical intrigue, and family-friendly outdoor activities in the heart of the Lake District.
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 Joey’s Café for vegan cakes and light bites served year-round except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
- Take the Windermere Lake Cruises Green Cruise from Ambleside to arrive at Wray Castle by boat during the warmer months.
- Join the daily 45-minute guided Walk and Talk tours at 10:30 or 14:30 to learn about the estate’s history and natural features.
- Explore the west shore path for cycling or walking adventures to Claife Viewing Station or Blenham Tarn.
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 takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A593 and B5286 roads. Pay-and-display parking is available on-site (£6.50 for up to 2 hours, £8.00 for up to 4 hours, and £9.50 for all day). National Trust members park free by scanning their membership card. Note that campervans and minibuses are not accommodated.
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Boat
Windermere Lake Cruises operate from Ambleside to Wray Castle’s jetty from Easter to September. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and offers a scenic, eco-friendly arrival. Tickets range from £10 to £15 for a return trip.
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Train and Bus
The nearest train station is Windermere, approximately 7 miles away. From there, local buses connect to Ambleside, with onward transport options including taxi or cycling to Wray Castle. Total travel time from Windermere station is around 45-60 minutes.
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Walking
For adventurous walkers, a 4-mile lakeshore footpath from Ferry Head provides a scenic route to Wray Castle. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven natural surfaces, suitable for those with moderate fitness and proper footwear.
National Trust - Wray location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about National Trust - Wray
A Gothic Revival Landmark with a Storied Past
Wray Castle, built in 1840 as a private home rather than a true fortress, stands prominently on the western shore of England’s largest lake, Windermere. Designed in the Gothic Revival style, the castle features turrets, towers, arrow slits, and castellated battlements that evoke medieval architecture. Commissioned by Dr James Dawson, a retired Liverpool surgeon, the castle was financed through his wife’s inheritance from a gin fortune. Despite its imposing appearance, the house was never a traditional aristocratic residence and was reportedly rejected by Dawson’s wife upon completion. The National Trust has cared for the castle since 1929, preserving its architectural character and surrounding estate.Expansive Grounds and Natural Beauty
The Wray Estate encompasses extensive parkland, woodlands, and miles of lakeshore paths that invite exploration throughout the year. Visitors can wander beneath specimen trees such as Wellingtonia, redwood, ginkgo, and beech, and admire a mulberry tree planted by poet William Wordsworth in 1845. Watbarrow Wood, a wooded bank between the castle and lake, offers tranquil paths leading to the water’s edge with spectacular views across Windermere. The estate’s informal gardens and arboretum provide a peaceful setting for picnics, family adventures, and nature walks.Visitor Experience and Facilities in 2025
In 2025, Wray Castle itself is closed for major refurbishment, limiting access to the ground floor only, where architectural features and a photography exhibition about Rupert Potter, father of Beatrix Potter, can be viewed. The castle’s upper floors remain inaccessible for the foreseeable future. However, the grounds remain fully open daily from 8am to 8pm, allowing visitors to enjoy lakeside walks, woodland trails, and the adventure play trail for children. Joey’s Café operates year-round (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day), serving vegan cakes, hot and cold drinks, and light bites from a pop-up cabin near the castle.Exploring the Lake District from Wray
Wray Castle serves as an excellent base for outdoor activities in the Lake District. Cyclists and walkers can follow the west shore path down to Claife Viewing Station or take circular countryside walks to nearby Blenham Tarn. The estate’s lakeshore offers access to Windermere’s Green Cruise boat service from Ambleside, providing a scenic and sustainable way to arrive by water. Guided 'Walk and Talk' tours run daily at 10:30 and 14:30, sharing insights into the estate’s history, natural environment, and local lore.Conservation and Heritage Craftsmanship
The ongoing refurbishment includes delicate restoration of the castle’s glasshouse windows, carried out by the National Trust’s Specialist Craft Centre. Traditional joinery techniques are employed to retain original timber, while blacksmiths recreate missing or corroded ironmongery. This conservation work not only preserves the castle’s heritage but also supports the training of new generations of skilled craftspeople, ensuring the estate’s architectural legacy endures.Access and Practical Information
The estate offers pay-and-display parking with free parking for National Trust members. Visitors can also reach Wray Castle by Windermere Lake Cruises from Ambleside and Brockhole, operating from Easter to September. The grounds are dog-friendly and suitable for families, with picnic areas and accessible lakeshore beaches. While the castle is currently closed upstairs, the estate’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a rewarding 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
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
