Craigdarroch Castle – Canada’s Castle

Craigdarroch Castle was completed in 1890 by the coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. It has 39 rooms and is over 25,000 square feet in size. The wealth and extravagance of the Dunsmuir family can be seen in the elaborate stone structure, the intricate woodwork, spectacular stained glass and the lavish furnishings. Unfortunatley, Robert Dunsmuir passed away just 17 months before the castle’s completion but his wife, Joan, three of their daughters and two orphaned grandchildren lived on the 28 acre estate until 1908.

The Castle subsequently was used as the Craigdarroch Military Hospital from 1919-1921, the Victoria College from 1921-1946, the Victoria Conservatory of Music from 1969-1979 and subsequently became a museum in 1979, run by a not-for-profit charity, The Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society and is now a Designated National Historic Site. The Museum Society has done an amazing job restoring most of the castle to it’s original glory and is still in the process of restoration. A good example is the beautiful hand painted and stenciled ceiling in the Drawing room, which was restored by a fine art conservator who first had to remove five coats of house paint.

Craigdarrach Castle

Rates & Hours

Craigdarroch is truly spectacular and well worth exploring. The staff are friendly and their passion for the castle is expressed by their enthusiasm and knowledge. Entrance fees are reasonable at $14.25 for adults. For more information, visit Craigdarroch’s website at: https://thecastle.ca/

The castle is open daily from 10 AM to 4:30 PM with extended hours from June 15th to Sept 6th from 9 AM to 7 PM.

The castle is located on 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC, phone: 250-592-5323

Greater Victoria Public Library cardholders can now visit one of Canada’s most treasured historical sites for free just by borrowing a Craigdarroch Castle ePass from the library. The pass provides free general admission to Craigdarroch Castle for two adults and two youth (ages 6-18), and children under five are free. Passes are valid for seven days and can be redeemed for a single visit. For detail please follow the link to the GVPL website.