Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle
4.5
Speciality MuseumsHistoric SitesPoints of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsCastles
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Completed in 1890, Craigdarroch Castle is a definitively Victorian experience. Discover the opulence and grandeur of this historic Victorian-era mansion, nestled in the heart of Victoria, BC. Built for coal baron Robert Dunsmuir between 1887-1890, Craigdarroch Castle is being meticulously restored. Inside you will see lavish rooms, adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and period furnishings. Learn the captivating stories of the Dunsmuir family, who built this architectural masterpiece in the late 19th century, the castle's fascinating history and its role in the local community. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Craigdarroch Castle promises to be an unforgettable journey into the past. Join us and immerse yourself in the elegance and charm of a bygone era.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Neighbourhood: Rockland
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- Gardiner WVancouver, Canada538 contributionsVictoriana in VictoriaAn 1890's full on Victorian mansion. Built by a Scottish Canadian industrialist who sadly never survived long enough to move in. But his wife and gaggles of daughters did.beautiful woodwork and lots of stain glass. Lovely wooden floors and furnished in the style of the period. Lots of stairs so those with mobility problems should note. Castle underwent several transformations over the years and each is recorded in the rooms and written tablets. A bit dark in some of the rooms (curtains closed to prevent fading I guess) but does make it difficult to read some of the info posts (I suggested a small hotel bed lamp be installed to make it easier. Allow at least an hour for the tour. And look on google for more info on the builder (one Mr Dunsmuir)Visited March 2024Travelled soloWritten March 6, 2024
- AeronauticalEngineerIrvine, California2,013 contributionsWonderful Castle with great historyThis is a beautiful castle with a ton of history. You walk up 4 levels of stairs and each level has rooms that are part of history. This is a self guided tour a d the garden in front is beautiful. Nice place to visit and spend 2 hours or so. The castle is about 15 minutes drive from the main harbor.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten April 21, 2024
- Denis RAncaster, Canada27 contributionsLifestyle of the ultra wealthy a century ago.There is ample parking at Craigdarroch Castle, and it's free. The house is enormous, very nicely restored, and the rooms are presented with furniture that was likely used in that period. Great way to spend a few hours, not too far from downtown Vancouver.Hi Denis, thank you for taking the time to leave a review and we are glad to hear you enjoyed your visit to Craigdarroch Castle! Yes, the Castle is quite large at 25,000 square feet! We hope to see you again for another memorable visit.Written November 3, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten May 11, 2024
- Traveller & FoodieMontreal, Canada4,361 contributionsEnjoyed the visitVisiting this castle was a delightful experience. Built in 1897, it spans over 25,000 square feet and was home to a privileged family in the early 1900s. The castle features four floors of fascinating rooms with cherry wood walls. You can either take a guided tour or do what I did—head to the second floor and watch a 35-minute film about the castle. I walked from downtown, which took about 35 minutes, and found it well worth the trip.Hi NancyLope, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for your visit to Craigdarroch Castle! We are glad to hear you enjoyed the documentary - it definitely offers a lot of information into the history of the Castle. We hope to see you again!Written November 3, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled soloWritten June 1, 2024
- eMBark TravelersWashington47 contributionsInteresting Historical StopWe walked through the entire castle and enjoyed how well the rooms were staged and all the beautiful stained glass windows. The intricate woodwork throughout was stunning as well. Our favorite spots were the Billiard Room and Smoking Room.Hello eMBarktravelers, thank you for your five-star review! We are glad that you got to enjoy the views of the stained glass and woodwork. We look forward to welcoming you back to the castle for another memorable visit!Written October 31, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten July 14, 2024
- Dear VirginiaTacoma, Washington185 contributionsA hidden gem that doesn't eat up your whole day!Walk through the castle at your own pace to enjoy a slice of Victoria from the past! Found the various rooms detailing all the different uses of the castle really interesting, and respected the fact some areas are still a work in progress to restore and create. The large grass area would be a great spot for a quiet picnic before you go in the castle on a nice day too. To get there is a bit of a walk though from the main downtown, but we liked having an excuse for a walk and then caught the double decker bus after.Hi travelwithsawyer, thank you for your five-star review! We are glad you got to tour around the castle. Since the castle society is a non-profit organization, your ticket sale goes directly into the restoration of the castle, so once again thank you so much! We look forward to welcoming you back to the castle for another memorable visit.Written October 31, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten September 18, 2024
- rlmptlLloydminster, Canada1,272 contributionsbest castle we have toured this is a must seethis is a must see. it was raining when our flight landed and this was already on my list of things to see and do before we left from our weekend in Victoria. we headed there and it was easy to find. Parking is limited and the street parking confusing to actually know where on the street but we kept driving around till a spot opened. i suggest to go as soon as it opens at 10 am so its less crowded we went on a Saturday morning. Loved the gift shop and bathrooms adjacent there as no bathrooms in castle. this was one of the nicest most interesting and well appointed castles we have seen. make sure to allow enough time and you need to be good with stairs!!Hello rlmptl, thank you so much for your five-star review! We are glad that you enjoyed your visit at the castle as well as our visitor center. We look forward to welcoming you back to the castle for another memorable visit!Written October 31, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2024Travelled with familyWritten September 18, 2024
- TiggersFarmUtOcean Shores, Washington99 contributionsGreat historical site, beautifulVery extensive slice of history. Must see video showing inside of castle. Castle is being restored showing different uses over the years. Note that internet is supposed to be available but supplied password does not work so don't plan on it.Hello TiggersFarmUt, thank you so much for your five-star review! We are glad to hear you enjoyed your visit at the castle. Thank you for bringing the issue regarding our internet to our attention, we have had someone come in to take a look and everything is working fine now. We look forward to welcoming you back to the castle for another memorable experience!Written October 31, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten September 19, 2024
- Dieter23 contributionsWhen a rich Canadian builds a European castle ...Not a sensation for a European, of course. We have seen it more from the Disneyland point of view, i.e. what does a rich Canadian envision a European/British castle. Beautiful wood wall paneling, solid craftsmanship. Nice if you have time in Victoria (and in bad weather of course).Thank you for your review, 2709speedy! We appreciate your perspective as a European visitor and are glad you noticed the beautiful wood paneling and craftsmanship. We’re happy that you found it an enjoyable stop during your stay in Victoria, especially on a rainy day. If you’re ever back, we’d love to welcome you again to explore more of the Castle's unique history!Written October 20, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten October 17, 2024
- Alyssa LBolingbrook, Illinois54 contributionsOctober 2024The staff was really helpful and knowledgeable of the castle! It was amazing how many stories it is and included some fun facts. There were many rooms, yet some of them didn’t have some historical pieces in them just information stands which made them just feel a little barren and the tickets each person are about $30 CAD. Not sure why there was a Ouija Board in the billiards room which kind of spooked me, unless it’s historical and was used by the family before.Thank you for your thoughtful review, Alyssal. We’re grateful our knowledgeable staff enhanced your visit. Your feedback about the rooms is valuable, and we’re committed to improvement. As a non-profit, every ticket you purchase ($22.50 CAD, with discounts available) supports the preservation, restoration, and protection of Craigdarroch Castle. We hope to welcome you back to discover our future restorations... and to share the special story behind that Ouija Board!Written October 20, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten October 17, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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@lawyer.traveler.dreamer
Seattle, WA1,356 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Discover the Timeless Charm of Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria, BC
Looking for more tips and insights about Craigdarroch Castle or other amazing destinations? Check out my IG and TT at @lawyer.traveler.dreamer for travel guides, reviews, and behind-the-scenes adventures!
Craigdarroch Castle is a must-visit destination in Victoria, British Columbia, for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. This Victorian-era mansion, perched on a hilltop, combines fascinating history with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Why Craigdarroch Castle Should Be on Your List
1. Step Into Victorian Elegance
Explore the beautifully preserved rooms of this iconic mansion, featuring intricate stained glass windows, detailed woodwork, and elegant vintage decor. Each space offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Dunsmuir family, who once called this castle home.
2. Tower Views That Amaze
Don’t miss the castle’s tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Victoria. It’s a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
3. A Photographer’s Dream Location
From its ornate interiors to sweeping vistas, Craigdarroch Castle is a treasure trove for photographers. Every corner of this historic site provides an opportunity to capture something beautiful and unique.
Plan Your Visit Like a Pro
• Dedicate at least 1–2 hours to fully experience the castle’s exhibits and views.
• Bring your camera to capture the incredible architectural details and scenic surroundings.
• Visit early or during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Add Craigdarroch Castle to your Victoria itinerary and prepare to step back in time while enjoying one of Canada’s most beautiful landmarks.
#CraigdarrochCastle #VictoriaBC #HistoricSitesCanada #VictorianArchitecture #VictoriaTravelTips #TravelInspiration #LawyerTravelerDreamer
Looking for more tips and insights about Craigdarroch Castle or other amazing destinations? Check out my IG and TT at @lawyer.traveler.dreamer for travel guides, reviews, and behind-the-scenes adventures!
Craigdarroch Castle is a must-visit destination in Victoria, British Columbia, for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. This Victorian-era mansion, perched on a hilltop, combines fascinating history with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Why Craigdarroch Castle Should Be on Your List
1. Step Into Victorian Elegance
Explore the beautifully preserved rooms of this iconic mansion, featuring intricate stained glass windows, detailed woodwork, and elegant vintage decor. Each space offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Dunsmuir family, who once called this castle home.
2. Tower Views That Amaze
Don’t miss the castle’s tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Victoria. It’s a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
3. A Photographer’s Dream Location
From its ornate interiors to sweeping vistas, Craigdarroch Castle is a treasure trove for photographers. Every corner of this historic site provides an opportunity to capture something beautiful and unique.
Plan Your Visit Like a Pro
• Dedicate at least 1–2 hours to fully experience the castle’s exhibits and views.
• Bring your camera to capture the incredible architectural details and scenic surroundings.
• Visit early or during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Add Craigdarroch Castle to your Victoria itinerary and prepare to step back in time while enjoying one of Canada’s most beautiful landmarks.
#CraigdarrochCastle #VictoriaBC #HistoricSitesCanada #VictorianArchitecture #VictoriaTravelTips #TravelInspiration #LawyerTravelerDreamer
Written November 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Diana, thank you for your lovely review of Craigdarroch Castle. We’re glad you enjoyed the history, architecture, and views. We appreciate you highlighting what makes the Castle a must-visit for so many.
Written November 27, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
William S
Liverpool, UK611 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
The approach to the castle is very attractive with many large, old and beautiful houses on the nearby roads and an excellent view down over the city from the hill it sits on. There is plenty of free parking. After collecting a wrist band after paying in the nearby small building (which also has washrooms and a shop) we went across the drive and entered the house to be given an interesting introduction by one of the many helpful members of staff. The interior of the building is striking and lined with wood and has numerous pieces of furniture and paintings which are accompanied by helpful brief descriptions of what each room was used for and give some of the history of the family. We spent about 2 hours and really enjoyed exploring the rooms. This was the first time we had visited the castle after many trips to Victoria and we are really pleased we eventually went.
Written March 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Saucysavory
Brampton, Canada1,825 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The castle is well maintained and its story unfolds as you make your way through this beautiful structure and home. Attention to detail helps to lay bare somethings that may have been kept quiet “back in the day”. Take the time to read the stories about the former inhabitants. There are large poster boards one can flip through to gain a good sense of who they were. Each room is carefully displayed with pieces of the time to depict what life was like. They certainly forged ahead and got as many comforts of the day that were available at that time. You have a full view of Victoria and as it is built on the highest point, the castle can be seen from all below.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MississaugaBee
Toronto230 contributions
Sept 2022
Craigdarroch Castle, constructed in the late 1880s, has a fascinating history and makes for an absorbing few hours stepping back into time in Victoria, BC. Sadly, Robert Dunsmuir, the extremely rich land and railway baron man who commissioned and owned the castle, died before it was finished in 1889. His family lived in the castle until his widow died in 1908. The term Castle is applied to the building; it is really more an exceedingly large Victorian home in the spirit of Downton Abbey.
Craigdarroch Castle is located just over two kilometers from the Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria. The walk is uphill (with the Castle dominating the top of a hill) so we elected to take a city bus there and return by foot. The bus driver was very helpful and friendly.
You purchase your tickets in the Visitor Center, a small structure located beside the Castle. There are washrooms in the Visitor Center and a gift shop. Note that there apparently are no public washrooms in the Castle itself so be prepared!
Inside the Castle, the extensive woodwork, the furnishings, stained glass, and the period costumes impressed me. The museum folks have restored a lot of the building with parts still to go including gardens. There are panoramic views from the upper turret rooms and Mr. Dunsmuir truly could have been called “King of the Hill”. I found it more appealing than did my lovely companion who patiently waited outside having taken much less time going inside than I did so perhaps the Castle isn’t for everyone, especially children or anybody who has issues with stairs.
Tip: if you encounter a cruise ship tour, sit down and enjoy the ambience while the sailing throng thrusts its way quickly to the next floor. The Castle is best savored without a crowd.
Bottom line: enjoyable but missing an element of flair.
Craigdarroch Castle is located just over two kilometers from the Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria. The walk is uphill (with the Castle dominating the top of a hill) so we elected to take a city bus there and return by foot. The bus driver was very helpful and friendly.
You purchase your tickets in the Visitor Center, a small structure located beside the Castle. There are washrooms in the Visitor Center and a gift shop. Note that there apparently are no public washrooms in the Castle itself so be prepared!
Inside the Castle, the extensive woodwork, the furnishings, stained glass, and the period costumes impressed me. The museum folks have restored a lot of the building with parts still to go including gardens. There are panoramic views from the upper turret rooms and Mr. Dunsmuir truly could have been called “King of the Hill”. I found it more appealing than did my lovely companion who patiently waited outside having taken much less time going inside than I did so perhaps the Castle isn’t for everyone, especially children or anybody who has issues with stairs.
Tip: if you encounter a cruise ship tour, sit down and enjoy the ambience while the sailing throng thrusts its way quickly to the next floor. The Castle is best savored without a crowd.
Bottom line: enjoyable but missing an element of flair.
Written November 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
G3nLondon
Silver Spring, MD506 contributions
Aug 2022
The home of 19th-century coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, Craigdarroch isn't really a castle - it's more a stately manor home in the process of being restored to its former 1800s glory. (several rooms are under reconstruction) There's no formal tour; once you're let inside the home you're encouraged to move from room to room to learn more about the Dunsmuir family and the 'castle's history after it fell out of Dunsmuir hands in the early 20th century. The pamphlet handed to you upon entrance was informative as were the various panels in the rooms, but an audio guide about the home would have been even better. I don't mind paying to visit historic places, but given the entrance fee, a more well-rounded tour experience would have been appreciated.
Written August 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlbertaChristiegirl
Calgary, Canada2,154 contributions
Feb 2020
My husband & I decided to check out the Craigdarroch Castle during our recent visit to Victoria.
Having taken the hop on hop off bus tour, we discovered how close this castle was to downtown Victoria & if you chose, you can hop off the bus to visit.
During the off season (when we were there), the castle is open reduced hours of 10am-4:30pm daily. We arrived just after opening and almost had the place to ourselves which was nice. The cost for an adult is $14.85 (seniors $1. less). You enter the visitor center to pay & the staff will put a wristband on you. You are also given a brochure of the layout of the castle & descriptions for each room. If you have a backpack, you cannot wear it on your back while in the castle. They have lockers you can use (pay) or you have to wear the pack on your front. There wasn’t an explanation why but we assume it’s so you don’t knock over anything while touring the castle.
After climbing the front stairs, you will enter the castle on the main level & are greeted by a staff member who will explain how to navigate your tour. We asked about the head phones for the self-guided tour but were met with surprise to our question. I see on the website they do offer them so perhaps the staffer was new to the castle.
We used our brochure/map of the castle & took our time reading all the interesting information displayed at each room. The story of the Dunsmuir family is sad but very interesting. The castle is huge, being 4 stories high, with 39 rooms & over 25,000 square feet. Built in the late 1800’s, it still has the furnishings from the 1890s, beautiful oak staircases & stained-glass windows throughout. Due to its age, the castle is not wheelchair accessible. It's a step back in time & the rooms are meticulously maintained & spotlessly clean.
The parking lot on site is free (minimal street parking as it's in a residential neighborhood), you can use the hop on hop off bus tour to visit or we walked from downtown Victoria.
Recommend you allow 1.5 hours to visit (unless it’s busy, you will need more time). There is also a small gift shop in the visitor center & in the summer a café is open for drinks and snacks. This National Historic Site of Canada is well worth the price of admission & time to visit.
Having taken the hop on hop off bus tour, we discovered how close this castle was to downtown Victoria & if you chose, you can hop off the bus to visit.
During the off season (when we were there), the castle is open reduced hours of 10am-4:30pm daily. We arrived just after opening and almost had the place to ourselves which was nice. The cost for an adult is $14.85 (seniors $1. less). You enter the visitor center to pay & the staff will put a wristband on you. You are also given a brochure of the layout of the castle & descriptions for each room. If you have a backpack, you cannot wear it on your back while in the castle. They have lockers you can use (pay) or you have to wear the pack on your front. There wasn’t an explanation why but we assume it’s so you don’t knock over anything while touring the castle.
After climbing the front stairs, you will enter the castle on the main level & are greeted by a staff member who will explain how to navigate your tour. We asked about the head phones for the self-guided tour but were met with surprise to our question. I see on the website they do offer them so perhaps the staffer was new to the castle.
We used our brochure/map of the castle & took our time reading all the interesting information displayed at each room. The story of the Dunsmuir family is sad but very interesting. The castle is huge, being 4 stories high, with 39 rooms & over 25,000 square feet. Built in the late 1800’s, it still has the furnishings from the 1890s, beautiful oak staircases & stained-glass windows throughout. Due to its age, the castle is not wheelchair accessible. It's a step back in time & the rooms are meticulously maintained & spotlessly clean.
The parking lot on site is free (minimal street parking as it's in a residential neighborhood), you can use the hop on hop off bus tour to visit or we walked from downtown Victoria.
Recommend you allow 1.5 hours to visit (unless it’s busy, you will need more time). There is also a small gift shop in the visitor center & in the summer a café is open for drinks and snacks. This National Historic Site of Canada is well worth the price of admission & time to visit.
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
deepakgupta5
Vancouver, Canada592 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
This is a lovely castle which is well preserved to showcase its rich history, built at a time when Victoria was at the height of its power and reputation in Canada. This is not a huge castle by the standards of European castles. The castle still has the furnishings from the 1890s, beautiful staircases & stained-glass windows. There are numerous pieces of furniture and paintings, all accompanied by a brief descriptions of each room and some history of the family.
Written July 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pauline
Port Coquitlam, Canada2,758 contributions
Oct 2020
We booked our facilitated tour a day in advance as the weather forecasted rainy day the next day. A good way to spend it indoor!
There were plenty of of parking spots from the entrance of the castle and surrounding it to the exit. Opposite of the entrance of the castle, you'll enter the ticket and gift shop building. Social distancing started right here. Masks are required. We queued at the ticket line even though we had booked them online. We were given wrist bands to wear, then if you want, you can go to the gift shop before you exit and wait by the castle's entrance.
The rain was quite heavy and windy, There was not much "dry" room for us to wait till they open the castle entrance door. Our group made up of 3 families with 2, 2, and 5, so a total of 9 people. The tour guide took us inside the castle and explained to us how we could practice social distancing to the best we can.
Inside the castle, it's only look with your eyes and no touching of what so ever!
The foyer has a nice fireplace and excellent woodcraft all around the house. Pay attention to the details. Rooms on the main floor were bigger so we could all go in at the same time. Rooms on the second floor were smaller compare to the main floor so the guide briefed us information on the landing and asked each family to enter the rooms separately. She would then go to the room and gave us more information. Then we went to the third floor which was the dancing hall. Totally we climbed 87 steps from bottom to the third floor which wasn't that bad. During our visit, the castle kitchen was under renovation, so we saw an empty kitchen (except for the renovation tools)! Our tour ended with a missing piece of puzzle....!
Our tour guide knew everything about the castle and the Dunsmuir family. Being rich doesn't necessarily mean you're happy. Story of the Dunsmuir was quite sad! Our guide answered all the questions we had, she was knowledgeable. Sorry, I forgot her name.
There were plenty of of parking spots from the entrance of the castle and surrounding it to the exit. Opposite of the entrance of the castle, you'll enter the ticket and gift shop building. Social distancing started right here. Masks are required. We queued at the ticket line even though we had booked them online. We were given wrist bands to wear, then if you want, you can go to the gift shop before you exit and wait by the castle's entrance.
The rain was quite heavy and windy, There was not much "dry" room for us to wait till they open the castle entrance door. Our group made up of 3 families with 2, 2, and 5, so a total of 9 people. The tour guide took us inside the castle and explained to us how we could practice social distancing to the best we can.
Inside the castle, it's only look with your eyes and no touching of what so ever!
The foyer has a nice fireplace and excellent woodcraft all around the house. Pay attention to the details. Rooms on the main floor were bigger so we could all go in at the same time. Rooms on the second floor were smaller compare to the main floor so the guide briefed us information on the landing and asked each family to enter the rooms separately. She would then go to the room and gave us more information. Then we went to the third floor which was the dancing hall. Totally we climbed 87 steps from bottom to the third floor which wasn't that bad. During our visit, the castle kitchen was under renovation, so we saw an empty kitchen (except for the renovation tools)! Our tour ended with a missing piece of puzzle....!
Our tour guide knew everything about the castle and the Dunsmuir family. Being rich doesn't necessarily mean you're happy. Story of the Dunsmuir was quite sad! Our guide answered all the questions we had, she was knowledgeable. Sorry, I forgot her name.
Written October 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shannon
Airdrie69 contributions
May 2022 • Solo
Beautiful stained glass. Not many of the items in the castle actually belonged to the family that lived there. Don't bring your kids, they don't respect things like this and disrupt the experience for others. Would have been better to have the viewings staged with groups of 6 max, and staggered, rather than a free for all.
Written May 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kpgc
Winnipeg, Canada616 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
Let’s start off saying it’s a stately home, not a castle. That being said, we found it a wonderful stately home. There are lots of rooms that are furnished very nicely according to the period, but there are also many unfinished rooms. In these rooms they tell you what they thought was there, but haven’t restored it yet until they are absolutely sure of their findings. This is refreshing instead of just guessing at what might have been. The wood work in the home was of an amazing quality throughout , as well as many amazing fireplaces. In many of the unfinished rooms, they have large displays of the families and the house’s history, which is extremely interesting. Also the views from the turret were excellent. This was definitely a very good days outing.
Written February 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there a lot of stairs.
Written June 12, 2019
Yes there are stairs; interspersed throughout the tour.
Written June 12, 2019
There are hand rails yes. As for the stairs they were all good. The staircases were also wide so you could go at your own pace.
Written May 24, 2019
Give me more information. How old are you? Are you healthy? A healthy single individual can easily walk to the castle. Families, elderly and and handicapped should take a ten dollar taxi. Like all castles, it sits up on a hill. What castle doesn't? It costs ten dollars to take a taxi to the castle from downtown. Healthy? Walk. Otherwise, take a taxi.
Written May 4, 2019
Fransiska
Jakarta, Indonesia
What tine is the movie history ? And how long is it ?
Written June 14, 2018
The movie plays every hour on the half hour (9:30, 10:30, 1130, etc) and runs about 35 mins.
Written July 30, 2018
Was the Christmas Carol Play very good at Craigdarroch Castle?
Written November 19, 2017
I never saw these questions before. So sorry. The play was brilliant.
Written August 13, 2018
No, no, and, sadly, no. This home has been restored to pre handicapped accessible condition. They did not consider such things in 1898, or the technology was not available in the area, or the old Scotsman who had it built was to thrifty. 19th century Scots considered such things and then spent a fortune on books in a library they did not even read as well as making certain they had a specific spoon for peas then said 'An elevator? jWasteful'. Sorry.
Written May 4, 2019
How long do people typically spend viewing/touring the Craigdarroch Castle?
Written June 3, 2017
Kate H
Victoria, Canada
Hi, and thanks for your inquiry! Because the tour is self-guided, you can take as long as you want. We generally recommend a minimum of 1 hour for a visit, though many visitors will take quite a lot more time than that. On average, it's probably about 80-90 minutes, with people who are extra passionate about stained glass, woodwork, or historic house museums taking up to 3 hours.
Written June 3, 2017
Est-ce que les visites sont possibles en français?
Written February 23, 2017
Kate H
Victoria, Canada
All visits to the Castle are self-guided (ie/ there is no tour guide, although there are docents stationed throughout the house to answer questions). All our information materials (including a history pamphlet and the map) are available in French.
Written February 23, 2017
Is photography allowed inside the Castle? I would not be using a tripod or flash.
Written February 20, 2017
Kate H
Victoria, Canada
Casual photography, including flash, is indeed permitted inside the Castle, though tripods and selfie sticks are not. This does not include any formal photography- ie/ posed wedding, engagement photos which causes problems for other visitors and must be booked for after hours.
Written February 21, 2017
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