Low Wray Campsite FAQs

Where is the nearest food shop?

We have a shop in the centre of the campsite, combined with reception, where we sell all the basics such as milk, eggs and bread and also stock a small selection of local meats and specialities.
Ambleside is a 10 minute drive away and offers several small grocery stores, and there's another in Hawkshead. The nearest large supermarket is in Windermere (20 - 25 minute drive), behind the railway station.

Where is the nearest pub/restaurant?

There are two country pubs with restaurant areas within a two-mile radius of the site. One is on the main B5286 and can be reached on foot from the campsite (approx 45 minute walk along a bridlepath), or a five minute drive away. Another is situated on the road which leads to Tarn Hows (approx 40 minute walk along the road) or ten minutes in the car. Both Hawkshead and Ambleside offer extensive choices for eating out.

Where is the nearest bank?

The nearest bank with a cash machine is in Ambleside. There are cash machines and cashback facilities in Ambleside and Hawkshead.

Do you accept dogs?

Low Wray is a dog-friendly campsite and all well-behaved dogs are welcome at no additional charge. They must be kept on a lead at all times and exercised away from other campers. Please pick up after your dogs right away.

Do you hire freeze packs?

We have limited space to freeze your own ice packs.

Do you exchange gas cylinders?

We sell a range of gas cylinders.

What's the weather forecast?

For up-to-date weather information, please telephone the Lake District Weatherline on 0844 846 2444. We display the local Lake District forecast at reception daily.

How safe is it to walk on the fells?

Please refer to the Lake District National Park Authority website for some useful guidelines on how to be safe whilst on the fells or alternatively, go to the Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team website.

Where are some good walks for families?

There are countless walks starting from the campsite, which are suitable for families. There is an excellent easy track along the west shore of Windermere and some interesting tracks nearby leading over Claife Heights towards Sawrey (and the home of Beatrix Potter). There are lots of downloadable walk routes on our website.
We sell maps and guidebooks in our shop and our staff are very happy to advise on local routes.

Where are some good mountain bike routes?

Low Wray is an excellent base if you wish to go mountain biking. There are some excellent tracks over Claife Heights and nearby Grizedale Forest which are accessible from the campsite. We sell maps and guidebooks in the shop.

Can we go fishing nearby?

Fishng is possible a short distance from the campsite but we ask campers not to fish from the campsite itself due to the busy swimming and watersport areas. All anglers require a rod licence, available at Post Offices and Tourist Information Centres. You may fish on Windermere from your own boat. (Motor craft are not permitted in Low Wray Bay).

Just a short walk away is Blelham Tarn, a beautifully tranquil spot for which you require a permit to fish from the Windermere and District Angling Association (WADAA). There are many other fishing locations nearby - including lakes, rivers and tarns. There is also trout fishing at nearby Esthwaite Water (permit available on site).

Where is the nearest town or village?

Low Wray is approximately 3 miles from Ambleside and approximately 3 miles from Hawkshead. Ambleside is the larger town and has much to offer in terms of shopping and eating out. It boasts a cinema and a museum (The Armitt Museum) and has a roman fort (Galava , NT). Hawkshead is a picturesque lakeland village with cobbled streets and offers family friendly pubs and quaint shops. You can visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery and our gift shop here.

How far is it to Bowness on Windermere?

By car, there are three routes to Bowness. Either by road to Sawrey and then by ferry across the lake to Bowness (approximately six miles) or drive to Ambleside and then follow the A591 to Windermere, turn right at the mini roundabout to Bowness (approx 10 miles but no waiting time for the ferry). Alternatively, you could drive to Waterhead at the northern tip of the lake and catch a steamer to Bowness (30 minute cruise). Timetables are available from reception.

Where is the nearest bus stop?

The nearest bus stop is approximately half a mile from campsite entrance. You can catch the bus 505 route from Windermere Station - ask to be dropped off at the Wray Castle turn off on the way to Hawkshead.

Do you accept trailer tents or caravans?

We can accomodate trailer tents but they have to be manhandled on to the pitch. Unfortunately, we cannot accept caravans. We can however accommodate campervans (max size 6m long and 2m wide).

Do you have laundry facilities?

A laundry and small drying room are available on site. Machines are coin operated - washer £3, dryer £2.

What places are there to visit nearby?

Wray Castle is a 10 minute walk away and further along Windermere west shore is Claife Viewing Station. Beatrix Potter Gallery and Hill Top are good walk and bike ride distance or a short drive from the site. It's also easy to venture across to Coniston for a cruise aboard Steam Yacht Gondola. There's bags to do and you won't necessarily need your car. See our links at the bottom of the page for more information.

Do you take credit card payments?

Yes, we accept most credit and debit cards (with the exception of American Express).

Which is the nearest lake?

Low Wray Campsite is situated right on the west shore of Windermere, England's largest lake. The site is also a short drive to many other lakes and tarns such as Grasmere, Rydal Water and Coniston Water.

Are you open all year round?

Low Wray Campsite normally opens just before the Easter holidays and closes at the end of October. If you wish to camp in the area outside of these months, please check our Great Langdale and Wasdale campsites which are open all year round.

Can I have a fire or barbecue?

We don't allow fires, but you are welcome to use a barbecue as long as it is above ground.

Can under 18s stay at the site?

Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I have to pay for the showers?

Use of showers is included in your pitch fee.

Can I park my car by my tent?

Ample parking is provided away from the tents, but close enough so you won’t have to struggle too far with all your gear. Wheelbarrows are dotted around the site to help you move your gear - please feel free to borrow one when you're setting up and packing away.