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Dunrobin Castle
Architect: Sir Charles Barry (c. 1845-1847)
Photograph:
Source: RIBA British Architectural Library Photographs Collection

Dunrobin is the fairytale Scottish castle. However, as in fairytales, appearances can be deceptive. Dunrobin is no Medieval wonder, but an early Victorian transformation of a small cliff-top castle.

In the 1840s the fabulously rich second Duke of Sutherland decided to transform the property, bringing in Charles Barry to advise him. There are a great number of Barry drawings in the RIBA collection, documenting his prolific career. Sadly, little relates to Dunrobin – only a few sketches and letters. In part, the castle’s odd design explains this. Barry’s plans for a French chateau were deemed impractical. Instead, the Duke himself redesigned the castle, combining the best of Barry’s ideas with more traditional Scottish architecture.

This early photograph reveals the majesty of Barry and the Second Duke’s vision. The castle’s angled forms command the hilltop, its many turrets, dormer windows and gables creating a wonderfully jagged profile. Beneath the roofline, however, there is more order, the windows of central block regularly spaced. The magnificent gardens below echo this. Trimmed topiary, neat beds and choice specimens surround the spurting fountain. The castle and gardens are picturesque, but carefully reigned in.