 He was created a baronet on 18 July 1856, gaining the title "1st Baronet Wake Walker, of Oakley House", appointed Rear Admiral of the Blue in 1858, and Rear-Admiral of the White in 1861, in which year he was also appointed Commander-in-Chief, Cape of Good Hope and West Coast of Africa Station.He returned to England in 1864, being promoted to Vice Admiral in 1865 and being appointed Commander-in-Chief, The Nore in 1866.He was promoted to Admiral in 1870.