Overview
Wray Castle is a 19th-century neo-Gothic castle with beautiful gardens and a rich history. It offers visitors a glimpse into Victorian era living and architecture.
Wray Castle is significant for its architectural beauty and its role in the Victorian era. It was also a training center for the Youth Hostels Association.
Location
Address
Low Wray, Ambleside, Cumbria
Neighborhood: Low Wray
Coordinates
54.411300, -2.934800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • Spring flowers
- • Gardens in bloom
summer
warm to hot
- • Extended opening hours
- • Outdoor performances
autumn
cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Autumn harvest
winter
cold and often rainy
- • Holiday decorations
- • Christmas markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for guided tours
- Bring ID for membership discounts
- Check weather and dress appropriately
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and stairs)
- • Uneven surfaces in gardens and castle
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
British Pounds (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks for guided tours
- • official website or National Trust app
- • 48 hours in advance for refunds
- • available for online ticket holders
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
National Trust App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets and membership management
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Manchester Airport
Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 15 km (from Ambleside)
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and beautiful gardens, a peaceful retreat from city life
Historical Significance: Important Victorian-era architecture and history, Youth Hostels Association training center
Insider Tips
- Free entry for National Trust members
- Best food and views at the back terrace café
- Early mornings are the best time for photography with fewer tourists
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Cumbrian cuisine at the café
- • Ask for guide John for fascinating historical insights
- • Visit the nearby Windermere Steamboat Museum
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance and bridge
Best Time: Golden hour in the morning or late afternoon
Tips: Low angle shots of the castle and bridge reflections in the water
Result: Great architectural and scenic shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Windermere Steamboat Museum
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Museum
Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's House
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Historic House
Lake Windermere
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Lake
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online for skip-the-line entry"
- "Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the gardens and lake views"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (16)
Bran Castle and Rasnov Fortress Tour from Brasov with Optional Peles Castle Visit
Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov from Bucharest
Bran Castle Entry Tickets
Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.
Bran Castle - Guided Tour
Visit Silves & Explore the Arade River | Eco-Friendly Solar Boat
Cliffs of Moher, Aran Island & Burren tour from Galway. Guided.
Private Day Tour in Transylvania, Peles and Bran Castles from Brasov
Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin
Bear Sanctuary and Bran Castle with a Professional Licensed Guide—Day Trip
Tour Gran Reserva - Valley of the Vineyards
Experience the History of Bran Castle and Saxon Fortifications in Burzenland
Bran Castle - trip from Brasov
2-Days Tour with Halloween Party at Bran Castle
Local experience from Brasov - Transylvanian villages and Bran Castle
Discover Transylvania: Peles, Bran, Sighisoara in a 2-Day Journey
Quick Info
Available Tours
7
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
£12