Dunrobin Castle, Scotland





This evening, I am posting information in Dunrobin Castle, a top visitor attraction located located on the N.E. coast of Scotland, about 54 miles north of Inverness.

To the extent that the term 'castle' denotes a building with a military function then Durnrobin is misnamed because it is actually a grand house dating from peaceable times of  1845 with design influenced by French Renaissance and Scottish baronial styles. However, the current building is built around the core of a medieval castle which was involved in past conflicts.

Today, the castle is the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland. Current owner is Elizabeth, the 24th Countess of Sutherland. This family's wealth derived from huge landholdings. During the period 1770-1860 (approx.) this family was at the heart of the infamous Highland Clearances when many thousands of tenant farmers were evicted to make way for more profitable sheep farming.

More information on Dunrobin:
  • The name is actually drum rabhain which translates as 'ridge of the long grass'. 
  • Inside there are 189 rooms including a library with 10,000 books.
  • Outside are extensive French influenced gardens and a museum detached from the main house.
  • During the main tourist season visitors can attend a very good falconry display in the gardens. This includes demonstrations by owls and hawks.
Gardens

 Gardens

Falconry demonstration

© Nigel P Cole/Catswhiskerstours Limited

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