Explore the Wray Estate

A couple enjoying a walk at Wray Castle

Wray Castle has plenty of paths, lakeshore and parkland to stroll through and enjoy. Discover the history of this fascinating estate this spring.

Explore the estate

Wray is one of the most spectacular and ambitious villa estates in the Lake District. Created between 1840-1860 by a wealthy couple as a city retreat, it's a great place to enjoy the beautiful views, head out for a walk, or enjoy a picnic by the lake. Pick up a leaflet and start your self-guided trail around the estate and learn more about its history.

Discover the new trails

New for 2022 are three short waymarked routes around the estate. Explore the collection of exotic fir trees in the arboretum, spot the bluebells as they appear in Wattbarrow Wood or enjoy a stroll through the open parkland towards St Margaret’s Church. Originally part of the Wray estate, it is now owned by the Church of England and the interior is not open for visitors.

On the shores of Windermere 

One of the prized features of the estate is the stretch of shingle beach and lakeshore access to Windermere. While away an afternoon by the lake or wander the paths and take in the views. The Windermere Lake cruises green cruise from Ambleside sails into Wray’s own jetty. We think it’s the best way to arrive. The boathouse and miniature harbour were part of the original estate and are bold in Gothic style like the castle.

Windermere Cruise Boat, Tern, on Windermere, Cumbria

Catch the boat to Wray Castle  

Start you day at Wray Castle in the best way, and arrive by boat to our personal jetty.

Grab a bite

Pick up a coffee  from Joey’s Café at the Castle and head out on a walk or head inside the cafe to warm up and to grab a bite to eat after your adventure. 

There are plenty of picnic benches dotted around, grab one on the front terrace and admire the views - don’t forget your camera, it’s a great spot for a photo.

There's a handy tap outside the castle where you can refill water bottles, perfect for stopping off on a cycle ride, or grab extra supplies from Joey's Café.

Head further afield

Wray is a great starting point for exploring more of the Lake District. Head along Windermere west shore, down to Claife Viewing Station and watch as the veiws open up along the lakshore. This is a great path for cycling for all of the family with a cafe at Claife perfect for refuling.

A family walks along the shore of Windermere at Wray Castle

Windermere west shore walk 

A wonderful linear low-level lakeshore walk, through woodland and parkland, featuring great views of the islands, woodland archaeology and the Victorian Gothic Wray Castle.

Winter walks around Wray Castle

A family walks along the shore of Windermere at Wray Castle

Windermere west shore walk 

A wonderful linear low-level lakeshore walk, through woodland and parkland, featuring great views of the islands, woodland archaeology and the Victorian Gothic Wray Castle.

Windermere seen from the grounds at Wray Castle, Cumbria

Wray Castle to Blelham Tarn circular walk 

An interesting and varied circular walk from Wray Castle taking in Blelham Tarn and returning via Windermere shoreline. This walk combines tranquil beauty, great views and fascinating stories from the past.