The National Trust has opened Wray Castle House in the Lake District, a 19th-century property in the grounds of Wray Castle that is now available to book from the start of November. Located a short stroll from the shores of Lake Windermere, the house sits within the grounds of the gothic-style castle, which is inspired by medieval fortresses and offers a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere suited to a Traitors-themed getaway.
Accommodation and pricing
Priced from £1,950 for three nights, the stay offers five bedrooms with space for up to 10 guests, and two dogs are also welcome. The veranda and most rooms boast views across farmland to the water, with the Lake District fells as a backdrop. A trail leads directly from the cottage to the shore, making it suitable for those seeking a peaceful retreat or a chance to reconnect with nature.
Free access to National Trust attractions
Guests at Wray Castle House will have free access to Hill Top farmhouse, the retreat where author Beatrix Potter found inspiration for many of her books, as well as other National Trust attractions. The local area is described as "very special" to the National Trust, as one of its founders met Potter at Wray and helped her publish The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
While Wray Castle itself is currently closed for refurbishment, the grounds, facilities and independent café remain open daily. The National Trust notes that Wray can be busy during opening hours, with possible noise from visitors and traffic, although guests at Wray Castle House will have the whole parkland to themselves after closing time.
Other Traitors-inspired escapes
Another option for fans of The Traitors is Highland Hall near Dingwall in Scotland, a 20-minute drive from Ardross Castle, the setting for the show, which does not let out individual rooms. This getaway is set in six acres of gardens and woodland with views of the countryside and sea.
The experts at holidaycottages.co.uk write: "This Georgian mansion is reminiscent of a storybook setting and will no doubt set the scene for your own memorable adventures. Take your plotting to the next level with the top-floor tower room featuring a balcony, well away from prying eyes."
Its remote location may make travel difficult, with Highland Hall nearly a six-hour drive from Newcastle and no direct public transport options, while the Scottish Highlands could be tricky to access in stormy winter months.
Castle stays closer to home
For those in the North East, Craster Tower Penthouse in Northumberland, available on Sykes Holiday Cottages, is housed in a Grade II-listed country home dating back to the 14th century. It sits just outside the fishing village of Craster, a stone's throw from the Northumberland coast, with space for up to eight guests and two dogs.
Elsewhere in the grounds at Wray, The Summer House sleeps four and is an option for smaller groups, while Low Wray Campsite offers a more rustic stay. All of these options are less than half an hour's drive from Bowness-on-Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere and Coniston, which offer places to eat and shop, scenic views and walks.
