Red Nab to Wray Castle Walk (Lake District)
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The Red Nab to Wray Castle walk takes you along a beautiful shoreline on Windermere’s western side. You’ll pass through woodland by the lake before arriving at the historic grounds of Wray Castle.
This walk is about 3 miles (5 km) there and back, making it a short but rewarding route with plenty of scenery. The path winds between the lakeshore and woodland, offering regular views across the northern end of Windermere and the nearby fells.
Start at Red Nab car park and follow the lakeside path north to Wray Castle, then return the same way.
You’ll find this walk in our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
WALK OVERVIEW
Distance: 3 miles (5 km) return
Route type: Linear (1.5 miles each way)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
OS Map: Explorer OL7
Terrain: Compacted stone lakeside path with some steeper gradients
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ROUTE DETAILS
Begin your walk at Red Nab car park on Windermere’s western side. From there, take the track north between the lakeshore and Arthur Wood.
The path is easy to follow and winds through oak, ash, and birch trees, with frequent views across the lake to the fells near Ambleside. After about 1.5 km, you’ll reach a grassy area at High Wray Bay, a great spot to stop and take in the scenery.
From here, the path heads uphill for a short stretch towards Wray Castle’s entrance. There are a few steeper parts, which might feel a bit more challenging for some walkers.
When you reach the castle grounds, you might want to explore the area for a while before heading back to Red Nab along the same lakeside path.
Dogs will love the woodland and lakeside views on this walk. As always in the Lake District, please keep your dog under control if there’s livestock or wildlife nearby.
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ACCESSIBILITY NOTES
This route is part of the Miles Without Stiles collection by the Lake District National Park, which highlights accessible walks across the region.
Key points to consider:
Well-surfaced stone path for most of the route
Some gradients up to around 1:6 near Wray Castle
Woodland sections may contain uneven patches depending on weather
Gates may be present along the route
Most of the path is well maintained, but the steeper parts may suit walkers who are comfortable with moderate slopes.
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START POINT
Location: Red Nab car park
Postcode: LA23 1LJ
Grid reference: SD 386994
What3Words: ///leotard.victor.distanced
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TURNING POINT
Location: Wray Castle
Grid reference: NY 375010
What3Words: ///fetches.seat.ounce
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FACILITIES
Wray Castle has toilets, parking, and refreshments available during the main visitor season. You’ll also find more cafés, shops, and services in nearby towns like Ambleside and Hawkshead.
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GETTING THERE
By Car
If you’re coming from Ambleside, take the A593, then the B5286 towards Hawkshead. After about 2 km, follow signs for Wray and continue to Red Nab car park, where the walk starts.
By Bus
The closest bus stop is at Pullwood, about 2 km away, on the 505 Coniston bus route. From there, you can walk to the starting point.
During the main visitor season, boat services on Windermere also stop at Wray Castle.
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LOOKING FOR MORE ROUTES?
Explore our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
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Disclaimer: We do our best to provide accurate information, but please double-check details independently before making any plans based on this article.
Planning a Dog Friendly Lake District Break
Walks like the Red Nab to Wray Castle route are perfect for relaxed lakeside adventures with your dog. With shady woodland, lake views, and a manageable distance, it’s easy to fit into your stay near Windermere.
Many people stay near Windermere so they can enjoy this walk and explore other scenic dog-friendly routes in the Lake District.
Browse our dog-friendly Lake District cottages to find the perfect place for your next walking holiday.
