Wray Castle

One of the finest attractions on the shores of the Windermere lake, this is actually a Victorian neo-gothic mansion built in 1847. Originally built as the private house of a well known Liverpool surgeon, this magnificent mock castle today is owned by the National Trust. Famous writer, Beatrix Potter spent a summer holiday here when she was 16 in 1882. With extensive scenic grounds to traverse including numerous rooms, towers and halls of the castle, the place is ideal for a family outing. The place is extremely child friendly with nothing delicate on display. Children are in fact encouraged to roam freely, explore mock ruins, hidden doors and even try the dress up clothes. You can also have a picnic on the grounds outdoor or choose to do the ‘the Peter Rabbit Adventure’ indoor. There are several photographs taken by Beatrix Potter’s father that gives you a valuable insight into the Victorian life of the 19th century. The grounds is also home to a number of rare tree specimens including redwood, varieties of beech and a mulberry tree planted by William Wordsworth in 1845. There are facilities like a lake facing café and a jetty on the shore making the place easily accessible by ferry.