Wray Castle

Wray Castle is a striking Victorian Gothic Revival country house on the western shore of Windermere, near Ambleside. Built in the 1840s for James and Margaret Dawson, it is now cared for by the National Trust.

Visiting in 2026? The castle interior is closed for restoration, with a partial reopening planned for spring 2027. The grounds, woodland and lakeshore remain the main attractions. Check current facilities and access arrangements before travelling.

More About Wray Castle

Discover Wray Castle

With towers, battlements and a lakeside setting, Wray Castle is one of Windermere’s most distinctive landmarks. Although its interior is undergoing restoration, the surrounding estate remains a rewarding place to explore.

Find out about the castle’s Victorian origins, Beatrix Potter’s connection and the best ways to enjoy the grounds today.

History of Wray Castle

Wray Castle is a Victorian Gothic Revival country house at Low Wray, on Windermere’s western shore. Despite its towers and battlements, it was built as a private home, not a defensive castle.

James and Margaret Dawson

Retired Liverpool surgeon James Dawson acquired the Low Wray estate in 1836. The castle was built between 1840 and 1847 for James and his wife Margaret. The architect is not definitively established: Historic England identifies H. P. Horner or J. Lightfoot as possible designers.

Beatrix Potter’s connection

In 1882 the Potter family rented Wray Castle for a summer holiday. The young Beatrix Potter met Hardwicke Rawnsley, who later helped found the National Trust. This visit helped spark her lasting connection with the Lake District.

National Trust ownership and later uses

The castle and surrounding land were donated to the National Trust in 1929. During the twentieth century, the building had several uses, including a youth hostel, a base for the Freshwater Biological Association and a training college for Merchant Navy radio officers. It opened as a National Trust visitor attraction in 2011.

Restoration

The castle interior is closed for a major restoration project during 2026, with a partial reopening planned for spring 2027, subject to progress. The grounds remain accessible. See the National Trust visitor information for current updates.

Architecture and gardens

Wray Castle is a Grade II* listed Gothic Revival country house, with striking slate walls, stone dressings, battlements, turrets and a central tower. The historic interior includes an impressive entrance hall and staircase, but these are not accessible while the building is being restored.

The surrounding estate offers woodland, gardens, specimen trees and walks beside Windermere. You can read more in the Historic England listed-building record.

Plan your visit to Wray Castle

Wray Castle stands at Low Wray, Ambleside, LA22 0JA, on the western shore of Windermere. The grounds remain open during the restoration, but the castle interior is closed.

Getting there

Parking is available on site, subject to charges and capacity. Boat connections are seasonal and routes vary, so check current transport information before travelling.

Accessibility

Outdoor paths vary in gradient and surface. Visitors requiring accessible parking, step-free routes or facilities should consult the National Trust’s latest access information.

Accommodation near Wray Castle

Windermere and Ambleside make convenient bases for exploring the western lakeshore. Compare accommodation around Windermere.

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Things to do at Wray Castle

Explore the lakeside grounds

Walk through woodland and gardens, admire the Gothic Revival exterior and enjoy views across Windermere. The grounds include specimen trees, lawns and paths leading towards the lakeshore.

Take a walk beside Windermere

The estate is an attractive place for a picnic or a gentle walk. Some paths have uneven surfaces and may be muddy, so check accessibility details before visiting.

Discover the castle’s history

Join a free Wray Castle Walk & Talk on selected dates to hear more about the estate, its owners and its landscape.

Refreshments

Check the National Trust visitor page for the latest café, toilet and other facility information during the restoration.

Events and guided walks

Wray Castle hosts occasional outdoor events and guided walks. Selected dates in autumn and winter 2026 include the free Wray Castle Walk & Talk. Check the National Trust’s current programme before travelling.

Visitor information for 2026

Address: Low Wray, Ambleside, LA22 0JA
Castle interior: Closed for restoration; partial reopening planned for spring 2027
Grounds: Open, subject to seasonal arrangements
Entry: Grounds free to explore; parking charges may apply
Facilities and accessibility: Check current arrangements with the National Trust

Before travelling: Opening hours, events and facilities can change. Refer to the official Wray visitor page for the latest details.