dunrobinb

Background is one of the Sutherland tartans

Dunrobin Castle.(Rear view)

An annual meeting is hosted by the present Chief, Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, for clansmen
who gather from all quarters of the globe to meet in the Clan Room, which is dedicated as a repository
for items pertaining to clan history. Although this is now the rear view in relation to the car park, in
reality, before road construction, it was the frontal view as the Castle was then approached by sea via
a pier ,which has since succumbed to the ravages of the North Sea.

                                          Front Entrance

                                              A bit more sombre than the rear, you must agree!

Part of the gardens, looking in North Easterly direction taken from just below the Castle, looking
out to the North Sea.

Another view of the gardens looking due East.

If flying falcons be your forte, an excellent day is to be had with the help, and under the supervision
of the Dunrobin Falconer, with a first class lunch comprised of local produce at midday. (Can I
recommend the saddle of venison?....Yummmmy!)

   "I KNOW you won't drop me, but if I am not to take to wing,
                                       just let me steady myself for my own peace of mind!"

There's no telling what will go to your head during the falconry display in the Castle Gardens!

             A Golden Eagle perches, no light weight, on the Falconer's knee supported glove whilst his
                                                assistant has the cuddling owl to hand.

SUMMARY

Of the several castles visited, this is by far the most impressive. A 60 minute drive from Inverness,
which is in itself a pleasant experience, as you cross both the Inverness Firth and then the Cromarty
Firth, never being far from the sea. Just after crossing the Cromarty Firth there is a view point where,
time and tide permitting, seals can be seen basking on the rocks. A very enjoyable journey indeed.

As to the Castle itself, the interior has a 'lived in' feeling, which vies with the fairy tale
appearance of the rear aspect of the Castle, and there are absorbing articles of interest for all age
groups to be found in the Castle Museum, so much so that you will be torn between which you prefer
...The interior or the exterior! 'Of course you can to and fro! I suppose it will depend on the weather!

The gardens are impressive, large and immaculately kept, and here is where you can have
your picnic. If the weather be inclement, there is a Castle Buffet. Tables and benches are situated
at pleasant spots in the gardens, near the Falconry, which are also utilised by the Falconer during what
can only be described as a supreme exhibition of speed and flight.

The Falconer handles and demonstrates the abilities of the following birds of prey :-
Harris Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, Buzzards, Bengal Eagle Owls and Barn Owls. He has names for
each bird, which he will reveal to you during the witty running commentary he gives during the
demonstrations. Hugely enjoyable. The displays are given at set times, so visit the Falconry early
to determine when next the birds will fly.

So there you have it... 1) A journey which is worthwhile in itself alone.

                                                 2) The Castle, interior and exterior, again a stand-alone experience.
                                                 3) The gardens, beautiful and immaculate.
                                                 4) The birds of prey display...You won't forget it!

Four for the price of one! All in all, an extremely worthwhile experience, but don't blame me if it rains!

The Castle is open to visitors :-

                                                   1st April to 31st May
                                                      Monday to Saturday: 10.30 - 16.30
                                                      Sunday: 12.00 - 16.30
                                                      Last admission: 16.00

                                                       1st June to 30th September
                                                      Monday to Saturday: 10.30 - 17.30
                                                      Sunday: 12.00 - 17.30

                                                     During July and August
                                                      Open 10.30.
                                                      Last admission: 17.00

1st October to 15th October
Same hours as May

Although the Castle is closed to visitors during the winter months, the gardens remain open.
More detailed information can be found at :- http://www.dunrobin-castle.com/

Clicking on the owl will return you silently and swiftly? to the index page.