For visitors to Victoria, British Columbia, stepping into Craigdarroch Castle is like stepping back in time. This grand Victorian mansion—known as a “bonanza castle”—was built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and showcases the opulence of Canada’s industrial age. If you’re fascinated by architecture, history, or just enjoy beautifully preserved spaces, this castle perched on a hill above Victoria is a must-see.

Recommended For

Craigdarroch Castle is a great stop for:

  • Architecture lovers interested in Victorian and Romanesque revival design
  • History buffs wanting to learn about Canada's industrial era elite
  • Photography enthusiasts looking to capture ornate interiors and stained glass
  • Families and travelers looking for an enriching stop in Victoria

Castle Background

  • Built: Between 1887 and 1890, high on a hill overlooking Victoria
  • Purpose: A symbol of Robert Dunsmuir’s wealth and power—he was one of Western Canada’s richest men
  • Who lived here: Dunsmuir died before its completion, but his wife Joan lived here until her passing in 1908

What You’ll See Inside

Give yourself plenty of time to explore all four floors of the castle:

  • Authentic Victorian furnishings from the Dunsmuir era
  • Elaborate woodwork, stained-glass windows, and other intricate details throughout
  • Interpretive panels and exhibits that help tell the story of the Dunsmuir family and late 19th-century life in Canada

Architectural Style

  • Craigdarroch is a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque, an architectural style popularized in the late 1800s
  • Look for strong arched windows and doors, cylindrical towers, and recessed entrances
  • This style blends influences from Italian, Spanish, and French Romanesque traditions of the 11th and 12th centuries

Preservation & Restoration

If you appreciate historical preservation, you’ll be impressed by the ongoing efforts here:

  • The Castle Society, founded over 50 years ago, is responsible for maintaining and restoring the castle
  • Restoration has been underway for more than 30 years and continues today
  • Efforts are guided by historic photographs and documentation—though only one original interior photo survives
  • The goal is to return rooms to how they looked between 1890 and 1908, when Joan Dunsmuir lived there

Tips for Your Visit

  • Plan for at least an hour to explore all four floors
  • Photography is encouraged—just be respectful of ropes and restricted areas
  • Check the castle website for seasonal hours and ticket pricing

Contact Information

  • Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, British Columbia
  • Phone: 250-592-5323
  • Website: thecastle.ca

Plan your visit to Craigdarroch Castle and experience a true Victorian treasure in British Columbia

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