Exploring Blair Castle
Like most very old houses, Blair Castle has been transformed a number of times by successive generations. The castles origins go back to 1269 when Cumming’s Tower was built and the tower still forms the highest part of today’s building. This was extended in 1530, then in 1740 the castle saw a remodelling to make it into an elegant Georgian mansion in the fashion of the time. A century later, the 7th Duke employed the Edinburgh architect David Bryce to restore the crenellations and turrets, build a new entrance hall and add the present Ballroom. Finally, for the new millennium, facilities were greatly improved and the modern Banvie Hall completed the present structure.
Inside the castle a spectacular display of arms and armour greets the visitor on arrival in the main entrance hall. The extensive collections also include pictures, furniture, porcelain, embroidery, masonic regalia and family memorabilia.
The Atholl Highlanders Room commemorates Europe’s only remaining private army which has its headquarters here. Each May the Highlanders assemble for a full parade under the inspection of their Colonel in Chief, the Duke of Atholl.
An audiovisual display presents a general overview and is particularly helpful for those who are unable to make a full tour of the castle themselves.
Visitors become acquainted not only with the Dukes and Earls of Atholl and their circle of friends, visiting Royalty and Scottish nobility down the ages, but also the ordinary people who have lived and worked here through the ages. Foresters and gamekeepers, gardeners and maids, butlers and estate managers have all left their mark and have an equally fascinating tale to tell.
