A
vast pink sandstone mansion, Drumlanrig is a transition between the traditional castle and
the country house. It has four towers, many turrets and spiral stairs. It was built
between 1679-91 for the ist Duke of Queensberry (Douglas) who was so incensed at the cost
that he spent only one night within it, preferring 15th century Sanquhar
Castle.
Tours begin in the west wing.
They reach the entrance hall where arched windows overlook the courtyard with its
traditional iron yett. The inner hall contains a collection of arms, militaria and games.
The east passage leads to the stair hall, with a grand staircase. The morning room
contains a modern painting of the 9th Duchess. The dining room has wood
carvings on the panelling, barometers and silver candlestands. A spiral stair leads to
Prince Charlie’s bedroom, and contains a few Jacobite relics. The drawing room is
sumptuously furnished, with full length portraits. The castle has many notable paintings,
by artists like da Vinci, Rembrandt and Holbein, and numerous antique furnishings, many of
which date from the 17th century.
Drumlanrig’s grounds
contain a country park, formal gardens, craft workshops, a cycle museum and numerous
walks. |
