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Parkland and Gothic Revival castle sitting on the west shore of Windermere providing an impressive backdrop of turrets, towers, informal grounds and miles of lakeshore paths.
Set on the shores of England’s largest lake, the Wray estate provides miles of lake shore paths, parkland and woodland walks with panoramic views to enjoy. Wander the grounds and spot the changes of the seasons from snowy mountain peaks to daffodils blooming on the lawn. For those looking for a longer adventure head down the west shore path down to Claife Viewing Station, perfect for a bike ride, or up to Blenham Tarn on a circular countryside walk.
Joey’s Café is open every day of the year (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) serving hot and cold drinks, vegan cakes and light bites to eat in or take away. Or pack a picnic and we’ll provide some of the best views in the Lakes for your lunch spot.
Leave the car behind and set sail on the Windermere Lake Cruises Green Cruise* from Ambleside and head across the Lake to Wray’s own jetty. We think it’s the best way to arrive!
*Easter to September
A major restoration project is underway at Wray Castle securing its future as a vibrant, family-friendly destination. The Castle building is currently closed for refurbishment, but there’s lots to do as the grounds, facilities and JOEY’s café are open daily.
You can also join a 45-minute Walk and Talk through the grounds with a knowledgeable member of the Wray team, as they share the secrets and stories of Wray.
Car park charges apply to non-National Trust members.
Level access to the outside of the castle.
Blue Badge parking in the top car park.
Disabled toilet near the café.
All-terrain mobility scooter available for hire.
For detailed access information for the grounds at Wray visit AccessAble
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| Grounds (10 Feb 2026 - 31 Dec 2026) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Sunday | 08:00 | - 20:00 |
* The grounds are open 08:00 till 20:00, 7 days a week The castle is not open in 2026.
Castle and grounds free to enter. Car parking charges apply for non-National Trust Members.
This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.
Self-assessed Accessibility Information
National Trust 2019
Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016Easy access by Windermere Lake Cruises boat from Ambleside and Brockhole - www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk.
From Ambleside (3.5 miles) B5286 and unnamed road (signed Wray).
From Bowness vehicle ferry (6 miles) B5285 and unnamed road (right at Colthouse signed Wray).
The nearest railway station is Windermere, which is 8 miles away.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL