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Windermere Lake Cruises, Wray
Type:Sightseeing Attraction
Low Wray, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0JA
About
Nestled on the peaceful western shore of Lake Windermere, Wray Pier offers a tranquil entry point to this iconic National Park location. Windermere Lake Cruises provides visitors with the opportunity to arrive at this historic spot in style, on board traditional and modern launches on the Green Cruise. Passengers can board the boats at Ambleside (Waterhead) or Brockhole piers and travel the short distance to Wray Pier, around 10 minute’s walk from the castle itself. In busy, summer months, the roads and car parks at the castle can become congested, so travelling there on a boat is an easier way to visit.
Alternatively, board at Wray Pier for a delightful circular Green Cruise around the northern half of Lake Windermere.
Passengers disembarking at Wray will find themselves immediately in the grounds of Wray, a striking neo-gothic structure managed by the National Trust. The castle building is not open in 2025 due to a major refurbishment project, but the grounds, parkland and café are all open as normal with outdoor seasonal programming all year:
- Café: 9.30 - 16.30
- Grounds: 8.00 - 20.00
- Join a free Walk and Talk grounds tour: Twice a day at 10.30 and 14.30
- Free entry to grounds (*car parking charges apply for non-National Trust members)
Adventurous types can take advantage of Windermere Lake Cruise's Walker's Ticket. Start your journey at either Ambleside, Brockhole, or connecting services from Bowness with a boat trip to Wray. From there, embark on a scenic four-mile walk through lush woodlands along the lake's tranquil edge. You'll finish at Ferry House where a final short cruise returns you to your starting point.
Beyond the castle, Wray Pier offers breathtaking lake views and a sense of serene escape. Pack a picnic or seek out a cosy pub lunch nearby for a relaxing break. With stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and the option to explore by boat and on foot, Wray Pier promises a captivating day out for families, nature lovers, and history buffs alike.
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Book Tickets
Opening Times
| Season (1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025) |
|---|
* Daylight hours
Facilities
Accessibility
- Disabled access
- Disabled toilets
Booking & Payment Details
- Credit cards accepted (no fee)
Catering
- On-site catering
- On-site light refreshments
- Picnic site
Children
- Baby changing facilities
- Children welcome
Groups
- Facilities for educational visits
- Facilities for groups
Languages
- French signs/guides
- German signs/guides
- Italian signs/guides
- Spanish signs/guides
Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities
- Facilities for conferencing
- Facilities for corporate hospitality
Parking
- Parking with charge
Property Facilities
- Dogs Accepted
- Gift shop
- Postbox
- Public toilets
Site Features
- Regional Tourist Board Member
- Welcome Host
Target Markets
- Accepts groups
- Coach parties accepted
Tripadvisor
- Excellent3111
- Very Good1205
- Average206
- Poor66
- Terrible66
Awards
- Visit England
VistEngland VAQAS Gold 2018 - Cumbria Awards
Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016
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Map & Directions
Public Transport Directions
The nearest railway station is Windermere, which is 10 miles away.
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