The Enigma of Floors Castle: The Largest Inhabited Castle in Scotland
Scotland, a land steeped in history and grandeur, is famous for its castles. From the enchanting Edinburgh Castle to the majestic Balmoral, every nook and cranny tells a story. However, when it comes to the largest inhabited castle, the title indeed belongs to Floors Castle. Nestled in the picturesque Borders region, Floors Castle stands as a testament to opulence and history.
Edinburgh Castle: A Royal Fortress
When most Scottish castles come to mind, one might first think of Edinburgh Castle. Perched on an ancient volcanic rock at the heart of the city, Edinburgh Castle is a formidable structure with an incredible rich history. Founded by David I in the 12th century, it has served as a royal castle, a garrison, and a prison at various points in history. Today, it is home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Honours of Scotland, and the Stone of Destiny, amongst other treasures.
The Unusual Designation: The Largest Inhabited Castle
While Edinburgh Castle has a storied past, Floors Castle holds the unique distinction of being the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. Initially a defensive fortress, Floors Castle was transformed into a grand country estate under the ownership of the Dukes of Roxburghe. Unlike many Scottish castles that have deteriorated through time or ceased to be used for habitation, Floors Castle is a living museum of Scottish and English history, with several generations of the family still residing within its ancient walls.
Inside Floors Castle: A Gastronomic and Cultural Experience
Step inside Floors Castle, and you find a unique blend of traditional grandeur and modern splendor. The castle is not just about its physical scale; it is a celebration of the arts and culture. Held annually, the Courtyard Festival is an extravaganza of music, crafts, and food, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its estate also includes numerous historic gardens, where visitors can wander through breathtaking landscapes full of roses, rhododendrons, and more.
The Greensand Seated Chair
A remarkable feature of Floors Castle is its unique piece of furniture: the Grennardian Chair. This massive chair is crafted entirely from greensand, a sedimentary rock, and weighs an astonishing 4,271 pounds. It is so large that the person seated in it is elevated to the level of King James VI/James I’s chair in the nearby Middle Hall of the Castle. This imposing chair is both a testament to the craftsmanship of the past and a symbol of the grandeur of the castle.
Preservation and Restoration
The Dukes of Roxburghe have not only maintained the castle as a home but also dedicated significant resources to its preservation and restoration. Each generation has sought to protect the cultural heritage of Floors Castle, making it a model of historical preservation in the UK. From the intricate stained glass windows to the majestic chandeliers, visitors can marvel at the meticulous attention to detail that has been infused into the castle's restoration efforts.
Haunting Legends
While the opulence of Floors Castle is one of its most striking features, the castle is also steeped in legends and unexplained phenomena. One tale tells of a ghost that haunts the castle, a spirit thought to be that of a 19th-century family member who is reported to have disappeared mysteriously. Visitors often feel a sense of cold drafts during the winter months, fueling these ghostly legends. Whether you believe in such stories or not, they add a layer of intrigue to the already captivating atmosphere of Floors Castle.
Floors Castle, with its rich history, grandeur, and the charm that comes from living within its walls, stands as a unique and fascinating landmark in Scotland. While Edinburgh Castle remains the most iconic and historically significant, no other castle in Scotland quite captures the essence of historical preservation and modern habitation like Floors Castle does.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of grand architecture, or simply seeking a place that blends the past and present, Floors Castle is a must-visit in Scotland. Experience for yourself the magic of this largest, yet inhabitant castle in the country, and perhaps you too will be enchanted by its timeless allure.