National Trust Press Release: Restoration project begins at Wray Castle
A major restoration project is underway at the National Trust’s Wray Castle, near Ambleside to secure its future as a vibrant, family-friendly destination.
This important and historical Lake District property ignited Beatrix Potter’s love of the area, when the family stayed in the castle on their holidays in 1882.
As well as being a home, the castle has been a youth hostel, a base for the Freshwater Biological Association and a training college for Merchant Navy radio officers.
Since opening as a visitor site in 2011, it has become a well-loved destination on the quieter west side of Windermere.
The aim is to safeguard the building and its surroundings for future generations and create new opportunities for how the site can be used and experienced by visitors.
The project includes urgent and essential work to the roof, electrics, fire protection systems, and security, as well as wider structural and environmental improvements. The first building to be refurbished is the Glass House, which is where visitors can find out about the project.
While the castle building itself is closed, the wider Wray estate remains open. Visitors can still enjoy the parkland, lakeshore walks, car park, and toilets, and Joey’s Café continues to operate year-round.
“We know many people are drawn to Wray for its mock Victorian castle, with fairytale turrets, and whilst the inside is closed there’s still so much to enjoy,” said Laura Lee, General Manager.
“This project is a big step forward in protecting the building and helping us think creatively about what Wray can be in future. In the meantime, we’re keeping the estate open and welcoming, Wray is one of the few places that the public can visit on the west side of the Lake. There will plenty happening outdoors throughout the year,” added Laura Lee, General Manager.
The scope of the work is still being finalised, but it is expected to take up to three years. Conservation surveys are ongoing, with attention focused on structural integrity, electrical systems, and historical features. Planned improvements include a new sewage treatment plant, roof repairs, rewiring, and the ongoing restoration of estate buildings.
During the closure, visitors can still enjoy seasonal events, including family-friendly activities like Easter trails, summer play programmes, and guided walks. An outdoor photography exhibition will open later in 2025 and walking routes around the estate are being expanded.
The long-term vision is to reopen Wray Castle as a flexible gallery and exhibition space, with aspirations to eventually house the National Trust’s Beatrix Potter collection. Beatrix stayed at Wray Castle on her first family holiday to the Lake District.
For updates and visitor information, please visit:
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wray or https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/wray/wray-refurbishment-project
Image Credit: The exterior of Wray Castle Cumbria | © ©National Trust Images Hugh Mothersole
