Car parks for Windermere west shore

Whether you’re venturing on to the water, exploring the area by bike, or going for an amble by the lakeshore, here’s a handy guide to our car parks along Windermere west shore to help you plan your day.

Two people cycle in front of Wray Castle, Cumbria
Wray Castle   Cumbria

Wray Castle car park, near Ambleside

Although the castle is still closed, you can park at Wray Castle for access to Windermere west shore for gentle walks and cycle tracks. Toilets available. Check back here for news about the tearoom. This pay-and-display or pay-by-phone car park is located 3 miles from Ambleside. Sat Nav: LA22 0JA (just above Low Wray Campsite)

Claife Viewing Station in the west shore woods of Windermere, Cumbria
Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore   Cumbria

Ash Landing car park, Windermere west shore

This car park is a great base for picking up trails on foot or bike to Wray Castle or walks with panoramic views over Claife Heights. It can be easily accessed from the east side of Windermere by ferry (now open with limited service). Grid ref: SD388954

Check ferry the timetable on the Cumbria County Council website
Family walking near Wray Castle on the west shore of Windermere, Cumbria.
Walking trail

Harrowslack car park, Windermere west shore 

A narrow, single track lane leads to this perfect lakeshore spot. Ideal for enjoying picnics, paddling, gentle lakeside walks or bike rides to Wray Castle or get up high for panoramic views from Claife Heights. There are no facilities here and it can be very busy in warm weather, so please be prepared with an alternative plan. This is a pay-and-display or pay-by-phone car park.

Find a walking trail
A man prepares to go Mountain Biking in a car park at Ennerdale

Check car parking availability in the Lake District 

We're working with our partners in the Lake District to safely manage our car parks. You can find the most up to date information and a guide to how busy car parks are today using the Safer Lakes car park tool.

Visit Safer Lakes to plan your visit
Car park sign and four walkers, Seatoller, Cumbria

Lake District car parks 

Whether you’re venturing on to the high fells, exploring the area by boat, going for an amble by a lakeshore, or mountain biking on off road trails, here’s a handy guide to our car parks in the Lake District to help you plan your day. Check capacity before you set off with the Safer Lakes car parking tool.

Find out more
A campervan at Wasdale, in the Lake District

Lake District National Park information for campervanners 

Campervans that are used for transport are welcome in our car parks but not permitted to stay overnight. Find out more about overnight parking for campervans in the Lake District and find a touring campsite on the Lake District National Park website.

Find out more about overnight parking for campervans
Two women walk their dog on a lead at Tarn Hows

Help us look after the Lake District  

Please follow the Countryside Code when you visit the Lake District. By taking your litter home with you, keeping your dog under control, keeping gates, driveways and roads clear and sticking to designated footpaths, you can help us care for the Lake District and the wildlife and people who call it home.

Follow the Countryside Code