Craigdarroch Castle is Victoria’s iconic bonanza castle,” a stunning example of Victorian architecture and a time capsule of 1890s opulence. Designated a National Historic Site, this legendary mansion, built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and powerful during the city’s formative years. For 2025-2026, Craigdarroch Castle is a top-tier attraction due to its ongoing restoration projects that continually reveal new secrets, its captivating (and spooky) history, its incredible collection of artifacts, and its innovative new visitor experiences. It’s a place where you can step back in time and immerse yourself in the drama, luxury, and controversy of the Dunsmuir family legacy.

Top 5 Reasons Craigdarroch Castle is a “Best Of” Victoria Attraction

1. A Masterpiece of Richardsonian Romanesque Architecture: Craigdarroch Castle is one of Canada’s finest examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Its powerful stone façade, rounded arches, and dramatic cylindrical towers create an imposing and unforgettable silhouette against the Victoria skyline. The interior is just as impressive, featuring intricate oak panelling, a grand four-story staircase, and a stunning variety of woods, including walnut, rosewood, and maple. The sheer craftsmanship and architectural ambition make this a must-see for any design or history enthusiast.
2. North America’s Finest Collection of Victorian Stained Glass: The castle houses one of the most significant collections of Victorian residential stained glass in North America. Of the original 47 art glass windows, 32 remain, showcasing exquisite floral themes and intricate paintwork. The highlight is the mysterious “Pre-Raphaelite” window in the Drawing Room, based on an 1862 painting. The identity of the artist remains unknown, adding to the allure of this incredible collection.
3. A Glimpse into a Controversial and Powerful Family Legacy: The story of the Dunsmuir family is a gripping tale of ambition, wealth, and controversy. Robert Dunsmuir rose from a humble Scottish immigrant to one of the richest and most powerful men in Canada. His family’s legacy includes serving as Premier and Lieutenant Governor of BC. However, their fortune was built on dangerous coal mines and exploitative labour practices, a complex history that the castle does not shy away from. This layered narrative makes a visit both a beautiful and thought-provoking experience.
4. New Discoveries and Ongoing Restoration (2024-2025): Craigdarroch is a dynamic museum where history is constantly being uncovered. Recent developments make a visit in 2025-2026 particularly exciting:
   • The Restored Dunsmuir Era Kitchen: Unveiled in late 2023, the restored kitchen offers a fascinating look at the “downstairs” life of the castle, with period utensils and a replica 19th-century cooking range.
   • Recent Artifact Discoveries: In 2024, researchers catalogued original electrical light bulb sockets from 1889, found in the attic. These, along with newly acquired Dunsmuir family items like a mink coat and a cheque signed by James Dunsmuir, provide fresh insights into the family’s life.
   • Upcoming Projects: In 2025, the castle will begin presenting the guest bedroom as it was in the Dunsmuir era and will undertake new masonry conservation work.

1. Innovative and Engaging Visitor Experiences: Craigdarroch has moved beyond traditional museum tours to offer a variety of engaging experiences:
   • The “Curiosities of Craigdarroch” Tour: This popular new tour delves into the castle’s “spooky” past and the Victorian fascination with the macabre.
   • Virtual Tours: Ten new virtual tours explore the castle’s art, architecture, and the stories of the women who lived there.
   • Theatrical Performances: The castle hosts live theatre, including a popular one-man version of “A Christmas Carol” and an improvised murder mystery.

Practical Visitor Information for Craigdarroch Castle

• Location: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC.
• Hours: Open year-round. Check the official website for current hours and to pre-book your tour time.
• Admission: Paid admission is required. Booking online in advance is highly recommended.
• Visit Duration: Allow approximately 60-90 minutes for a self-guided tour.
• Accessibility: Due to its historic nature, the castle has many stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. A virtual tour is available for those unable to climb the stairs.
• Website: https://thecastle.ca/

Craigdarroch Castle is a place where every object tells a story. From its magnificent architecture to its priceless artifacts and the complex legacy of its founding family, the castle offers one of the most immersive historical experiences in Victoria. The ongoing restoration work and innovative new tours mean there is always something new to discover. For a journey into the heart of Victorian high society, with a hint of ghost story and a dose of real-life drama, Craigdarroch Castle is an unbeatable and essential “best of” Victoria attraction for 2025-2026.