Heritage Open Days 2025 - See inside St Margaret’s Church at Wray
A place of worship for a Victorian middle-class couple, and the place where a friendship began that proved so important to the Lake District we see today. St Margaret's Church is normally closed to visitors; here's your chance to see the interior.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
St Margaret of Antioch Church was built by the Dawsons in 1856 as part of the Wray Castle estate. Hardwicke Rawnsley, who went to become one of the founders of the National Trust, served as the vicar from 1877 - 1884. During this time, he met young Beatrix Potter and her family who were staying at Wray Castle for their summer holiday in the Lake District. It was the start of a long-lasting friendship: Hardwicke championed Beatrix’s books and they shared a desire to protect the Lake District’s landscape and traditions. Beatrix worked closely with the National Trust and bequeathed to the charity over 4000 acres and 15 farms.
For Heritage Open Days, the church will be opened as a chance to see inside the grade 2 listed building and former place of worship normally closed to visitors. The church isn’t owned by the National Trust and has been opened with permission from the Diocese of Carlisle.
Drop in between 10.30 and 15.00, where you’ll be welcomed by a member of the National Trust team who will share with you more about the history of this special place.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
Steps into the church. There is limited parking close to the church however, it isn’t designated as accessible parking. There are no toilets at the church, the nearest toilets are at the castle.
- Other
Pay and display parking available at the castle (free for National Trust members) and then it's a 10 minutes walk to the church either on tarmac down the drive or across the field.
Upcoming events
Summer of Play at Wray 2025
Summer of Play at Wray kicks off in June and stretches across the summer holidays. Designed for families and children of all ages, Wray’s outdoor spaces will become zones of activity.
Wray Grounds Tour - Walk & Talk
Want to learn more about the history of the Wray estate? Why not join one of our 45-minute Walk and Talk’s with a knowledgeable member of the Wray team, as they share the secrets and stories of Wray.
Blelham Tarn Circular Guided Walk
This circular guided walk starts from the castle at Wray combining tranquil beauty, great views and information on the local area.
Earth Day Outdoor Photography Exhibition
Earth Photo is a world leading international programme telling compelling stories about our planet, its inhabitants, its beauty, fragility, and resilience.