Hatley Castle : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Hatley Castle is a grand, stunning estate with a storied past. Located on the grounds of Royal Roads University in Colwood, British Columbia, this imposing Edwardian castle was originally the home of the Royal Canadian Navy’s first Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral James Hatley. Throughout its history, Hatley Castle has been home to a number of different people, but its legacy of grandeur and beauty remains. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of architecture, or a traveler looking for a beautiful and interesting place to explore, Hatley Castle is an excellent destination. In this blog we’ll look at some of the castle’s interesting facts, explore useful information for visitors, and discover some of the best travel tips as you plan your visit to this remarkable Canadian heritage site.

Interesting Facts About Hatley Castle

1. Hatley Castle was originally built in 1908 as a private residence for coal baron, Robert Dunsmuir, and later became the home of his son, James Dunsmuir.

2. The castle is located on a sprawling 200-acre estate, which is now open to the public as the Royal Roads University.

3. From 1951 to 1995, Hatley Castle was the home of the Royal Roads Military College before it became the site of Royal Roads University.

4. The castle is rumoured to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Florence Dunsmuir, the wife of James Dunsmuir who took her own life in the bedroom at the top of East Tower in 1936.

5. The castle served as a filming location for the X-Men movies and was featured in the TV show The Flash.

6. Hatley Castle has an unofficial mascot, a friendly neighbourhood raccoon named Rucon who enjoys a nice sundae from the kitchens of the castle.

7. Inside the castle, visitors can explore lush gardens, a sunken garden maze, and a lake with a rock water garden and gazebo.

8. Hatley Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region, with thousands of visitors every year.

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History & Information About Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle, located in Colwood, British Columbia, is a Tudor-style mansion built between 1908 and 1912. The structure is built of stone and is considered a Prime National Historic Site of Canada. It was originally built by former Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia, James Dunsmuir, and his wife Laura, for their family.

Hatley Castle was originally intended to be the family’s summer retreat, as the Dunsmuirs had previously lived at the luxurious Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria. The building was designed by Kivas Tully, and the surrounding gardens and grounds were created by renowned landscape designer Edward Milne. As James Dunsmuir died in 1908, his death meant that the couple was never able to move into the palace. After his death, the property remained in the family though Dunsmuir’s sons often used the castle when they visited from Victoria

From 1941-1995, Hatley Castle was the site of the Royal Roads Military College, and after this, the Royal Roads University. In 1995 the campus moved nearer to the rival of Victoria, BC. The Canadian government then leased the castle to the Government of British Columbia, and it is now operated by Royal Roads University as a retreat for alumni. The property now includes the Japanese and Italian gardens, a rhododendron garden, the sunken gardens and rose gardens, originally created by Edward Milne. The property is open to the public, allowing for occasional tours.

The grounds of Hatley Castle have also been used as the exterior shots of the fictional Xavier’s School of Mutations in the X-Men movies as well as other popular TV and movie productions.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle, located in Colwood, British Columbia, is an iconic landmark and historic site that is popular with visitors from all over Canada and the world. Dating back to 1908, this former residence of Lawson Du B. Erwin, a senior Canadian Pacific Railway executive, is now owned by Royal Roads University, and sits on its own 565-acre estate.

The castle and grounds are open to the public and offer a range of activities to enjoy and explore. Gardens, nature trails, tennis courts, and the beautiful Japanese Garden, are just some of the attractions you can explore.

Here’s your complete guide to visiting Hatley Castle on your next visit to Colwood, British Columbia.

Getting There:

Hatley Castle is located in Colwood, British Columbia, which is a short drive from either Victoria or Vancouver. If traveling from Victoria, you can access the castle by taking Highway 1 to Langford Parkway and then right on Ardely Avenue and left on Metchosin Road.

Opening Hours:

Hatley Castle is open daily, from 9:00am-5:00pm, including bank holidays.

Admission Charges:

Admission prices are as follows:

• Adults $9.95
• Senior (60+) $6.95
• Youth (7-18) $4.00
• Children (6 and under) Free

Tours & Activities:

Guided tours of the castle are offered year-round and are free with admission. Tours are available in English, French, and Spanish and typically last about 40 minutes. Other activities in the grounds include bird watching, cycling, and exploring the various gardens and nature trails.

Food & Drink:

The onsite café, Hatley Castle Cafe, offers a seasonal menu of lunches, drinks, and desserts. There is also a picnic area where visitors can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the grounds.

Accommodation:

The castle does not offer any overnight stays but there are many great hotels and guesthouses nearby. Some of the top-rated accommodations in Colwood include Bigbury House, Beachwood Lodge and Inn on Pelham Bay.

Hopefully this guide helps to plan your visit to Hatley Castle in Colwood, British Columbia. Enjoy your stay!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hatley Castle

Q: What is Hatley Castle?

A: Hatley Castle is a Scottish baronial-style mansion located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, in the Municipality of Colwood, British Columbia. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1994.

Q: What type of events take place at Hatley Castle?

A: Hatley Castle is a popular venue for weddings, special events, corporate retreats, Christmas parties and more.

Q: Who owns Hatley Castle?

A: Hatley Castle is owned by Royal Roads University, a Canadian public university with a campus nearby.

Q: Is Hatley Castle open to the public?

A: Yes! Hatley Castle and grounds are open to the public for self-guided and guided tours.

Q: Is there a charge to tour Hatley Castle?

A: Guided and self-guided tours are available for an admission fee.

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