Wray Castle, Victorian castle in Claife, England
The castle features prominent turrets and Gothic architectural elements built in local stone, positioned along the western shore of Lake Windermere.
Constructed between 1840 and 1846 for Liverpool surgeon James Dawson, the castle was financed by his wife's inheritance and later donated to the National Trust.
The castle sparked Beatrix Potter's connection to the Lake District during her stay in 1882, influencing her future work and conservation efforts.
Visitors can access the castle grounds throughout the year and explore the interior spaces, which include family-oriented activities and educational displays.
The castle operated as a training college for Merchant Navy radio officers from 1958 to 1998, teaching maritime communication skills to generations of cadets.
Location: Claife
Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/wray-castle
GPS coordinates: 54.40030,-2.96417
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:01
Cumbria features medieval churches, watermills, prehistoric stone circles and Roman ruins. The region houses historic mansions like Sizergh Castle and Hutton in the Forest. Nature enthusiasts can explore limestone formations, waterfalls and Ennerdale Lake. Literature fans can visit William Wordsworth's birthplace and residence.
Galava
2.5 km
Brockhole
1.4 km
Langdale Chase
1.4 km
Church of St Mary
3.4 km
Dove Nest
1.8 km
Stagshaw Garden
2.1 km
Holy Trinity Church, Brathay
2.7 km
Rothay Manor
2.9 km
Church of St Margaret Wray
349 m
2-11, Church Street
3.4 km
Wray Castle
36 m
Low Wood Hotel
1.5 km
Rothay Bridge
2.9 km
Wateredge Hotel
2.4 km
Croft Hotel
2.8 km
Friends' Meeting House
3.2 km
Greenhouse And Retaining Wall To East Of R.M.S. Wray Castle
51 m
Hawkshead Courthouse
3.4 km
Gatehouse At Croft Hotel
2.7 km
Calgarth Hall
2.7 km
Boathouse With Attached Quays And Enclosed Dock With Slipway Approximately 300 Metres To North Of Rms Wray Castle
352 m
Wansfell Holme
1.8 km
Cross Brow
3.1 km
Milestone, Low Wood Hotel, S of Ambleside
1.5 km
Milestone, Waterhead, top of Lake Widermere, S of Ambleside
2.3 km
Green End Cottage
3.2 km
The Cragg, Cragg Cottage And Barn
2.9 km
Lowfield With Former Cottage Adjoining To North East
3.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes