Neil Garneau

Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle historic house museum is a "must see" on your visit to Victoria, B. C. The wealthy Dunsmuir family saga and the mansion they built is a key piece of British Columbia's history. Designated as one of Canada's National Historic Sites, this Victorian Castle is a legendary tourist attraction. Craigdarroch was built between 1887-1890 for Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal. This legendary Victorian mansion, built on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria (Craigdarroch means "rocky, oak place" in Gaelic) announced to the world that Robert Dunsmuir was the richest and most important man in Western Canada. He died in 1889 leaving his entire estate to his wife Joan who lived in the Castle until her death in 1908. The immense fortune of the Dunsmuir family is reflected in the four floors of exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian era furnishings. Now privately owned and operated by the Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society, Victoria's legendary landmark is almost totally funded by its 140,000 annual visitors. We also receive support from businesses and individuals who generously sponsor some of our special events. For more information or to get involved please contact us.