Intriguing Lake District Castles inside the park and just beyond
There are tons of things to do in the Lake District that extend beyond lakes and walks. But if you still want to be outside, the fascinating Lake District castles are a great option.
Interestingly, only a couple of these castles actually sit inside the National Park. The rest? Just outside, and absolutely worth the detour.
Here’s your guide to which castles in and near the Lake District deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Lake District castle locations
If you’re searching for castles in the Lake District, you’ll only find a couple inside the National Park boundaries, then a wider ring of them just beyond it. Most are within a 20-40 minute drive of the Lake District – depending on your starting point.
Before we dive into the details of each of the castles around the Lake District, take a look at this map that highlights their locations and proximity to Ambleside (a good central point).
The castles inside the Lake District National Park
As mentioned above, there are only two castles that lie within the Lake District National Park boundary. Let’s take a look at those in more detail.
Wray Castle
Wray Castle looks like a medieval fortress, but it’s actually a Victorian-built “sham castle” from the 1800s. These castles were part of a Victorian trend known as Gothic Revival.
Wray Castle has the turrets, battlements and even dramatic lake views. Apart from the views, it’s all for show really, and that’s part of its story and charm.
Wray Castle snapshot
- Built in 1840 for a retired doctor
- Set right on the shores of Windermere
- Managed by the National Trust
Why visit Wray Castle?
It’s an easy, family-friendly stop on a Windermere or Lake District day trip. Combine visiting here with lakeside walks, boat trips, and time for kids to explore.
Fun fact: Beatrix Potter once holidayed near Wray Castle as a child. This visit sparked her lifelong love of the Lake District.
Visitor tip: Skip the interior if you’re short on time. The real highlight is the lakeside setting and grounds.
Muncaster Castle
Muncaster Castle is the real deal. Parts of the building and grounds date back to the 13th century. It’s still lived in today by the Pennington family!
Muncaster Castle snapshot
- Overlooks the Eskdale Valley
- Known for its gardens and bird of prey centre
- Said to be one of Britain’s most haunted castles
Why visit Muncaster Castle?
It’s great for a full day out, combining medieval history, gardens, birds of prey, and an unexpected touch of the supernatural.
Fun fact: The “Luck of Muncaster” legend says Henry VI gifted a Venetian glass bowl to the Pennington family in 1464 after being sheltered there. He promised they would keep the castle as long as it remains unbroken. It’s still intact.
Visitor tip: Plan at least half a day – there’s way more here than just the castle itself.
Castles near the Lake District worth visiting
With so many places to visit in the Lake District itself, you might question why you’d need to leave. But these castles and their surroundings are well worth the trip. Plus, you’ll enjoy beautiful scenery on your journey. So what are these other castles near the Lake District?
Kendal Castle
Perched above and walkable from Kendal Town, the atmospheric ruins of Kendal Castle were once home to the Parr family. Yes, including Catherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth wife.
Kendal Castle snapshot
- Free to visit
- Panoramic views over Kendal
- Peaceful, uncrowded feel
Why visit Kendal Castle?
Kendal Castle enjoys one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the area with a side of royal history, displayed on plaques around the ruins. The walk up to it is a lovely addition to visiting Kendal town.
Fun fact: Locals sometimes call Kendal “Auld Grey Town” thanks to its limestone buildings.
Visitor tip: It’s a small grassy hill climb so wear decent shoes, especially if it’s raining.
Sizergh Castle
Technically a fortified manor, Sizergh Castle has been home to the Strickland family for over 750 years.
Sizergh Castle snapshot
- Famous for its rich Elizabethan interiors
- Beautiful gardens and woodland walks
- National Trust property
Why visit Sizergh Castle?
The beautifully preserved interiors and gardens feel nicely off the tourist trail. A walk up nearby Scout Scar offers breathtaking views across the Lyth Valley, Morecambe Bay, and the Lake District.
Good to know: Sizergh Castle is built on an ancient 400-million-year-old limestone reef, so if you look closely at its walls and grounds, you can actually spot real fossils embedded in the stone.
Visitor tip: Combine visiting here with Kendal Castle – it’s a short 5 minute drive between them.
Lowther Castle
A dramatic ruin with a different vibe than the other castles in this article. Lowther Castle feels more like a romantic sweeping landscape than a traditional castle visit.
Lowther Castle snapshot
- Vast gardens and adventure play areas
- Impressive skeletal remains of the house
- Great for families
Why visit Lowther Castle?
The unique mix of dramatic ruins, landscaped gardens, and space to properly explore makes for a varied day out. If you have kids, they’ll love the adventure play area.
Fun fact: The gardens were lost for decades and only rediscovered and restored in the 2000s.
Visitor tip: Plan a full day here if you’re travelling with kids. There’s loads to do, including food, drink, and ice cream to fuel you up.
Brougham Castle
A proper medieval fortress near Penrith, Brougham Castle was once strategically important for controlling routes into northern England.
Brougham Castle snapshot
- Built in the 13th century
- English Heritage site
- Strong Roman connections nearby
Why visit Brougham Castle
If you enjoy a classic medieval fortress experience with rich history and a peaceful setting, this one’s for you.
Fun fact: Lady Anne Clifford restored Brougham Castle in the 17th century after years of neglect. She’s a rare female figure in castle history.
Visitor tip: Pair with a visit to Penrith or nearby Roman sites for a history-packed day.
Dalton Castle
Small but mighty, Dalton Castle is a compact peel tower with a fascinating past. It once served as the administrative hub for the powerful Furness Abbey’s vast medieval estates.
Dalton Abbery snapshot
- Dates to the 14th century
- Once used as a courthouse and prison
- Run by volunteers
Why visit Dalton Castle
Pair the atmosphere and history of Dalton Castle with a stop in Ulverston. The town’s charming cobbled streets, independent cafés, and Laurel & Hardy heritage make for a lovely day out.
Fun fact: Dalton Castle is one of the best-preserved peel towers in Cumbria.
Visitor tip: Check opening times. Because Dalton Castle is run by volunteers, they’re limited, so don’t leave it to chance.
Which Lake District castles are best to visit?
As you might imagine, there’s no straightforward answer to this question. It depends on what you want from your day, who you’re visiting with, and how much history you’re interested in. This table helps compare some of the key decision factors.
Where to stay when visiting Lake District castles
Where you stay when you visit the Lake District can make all the difference to your trip. A holiday cottage somewhere central, like Coniston or Windermere is ideal for the National Park and nearby sites of interest, such as castles.
For a cosy, well-located base, perfect for your Lake District itinerary, check out Coppermines Holiday Cottages.
