Craigdarroch Castle is an iconic landmark in Victoria, Canada steeped in intriguing history and shrouded by eerie tales of hauntings. It is said to be haunted by the Dunsmuir family who built the castle, and people still claim to see the ghosts of them today.  

Craigdarroch Castle that sits atop of a hill and looks over the city of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada. Some locals will even claim that this city is the most haunted one in all of British Columbia, and Craigdarroch Castle might be the most haunted place in the city. 

The National Historic Site has been the subject of numerous legends and stories that makes it one of the most visited haunted places in the country. From grisly tales of hauntings to its intriguing history, discover why this castle is a must-see for all paranormal enthusiasts.

Uncover the history of Craigdarroch Castle

Constructed in 1890 with 39 rooms, Craigdarroch Castle has remained a prominent landmark in Victoria, Canada throughout its long history. Built by Scottish immigrant Robert Dunsmuir on a hill overlooking the city. And what does a Scotsman do when he acquires himself a fortune? He builds himself a castle for him and his family. The castle was home to Robert and his family until 1908, although Robert himself died before he got to see his work. 

After his death his sons and their mother fought about ownership until her death in 1908 and even if the children were born of a wealthy man, there were not a lot of them who grew up to enjoy the family wealth. Architects died, one of the sons died on his honeymoon, one of the daughters died right after her father. This family looked like it was trailed by misfortune, and the only way they got to enjoy the comfort of their home was in death. 

The Ghostly tales behind Craigdarroch Castle

Among the Craigdarroch Castle most interesting features are the stories of strange hauntings that have occurred there over the years. Local legends say that ghostly figures have been seen standing in the windows or deep within its many rooms, while mysterious voices and intangible presences are reported to have been sensed by some visitors. 

Additionally, staff members of Craigdarroch Castle report hearing children crying throughout various parts of the building adding to its haunting allure!

The Child in the Basement

This is said to be the children of Dunsmuirs that never got the chance to grow up, especially their daughter who died right after Roebet did. But she as well as her other potentially ghost friends are still playing in the castle. 

It is especially the cellar that is talked about being haunted by this child. She has been seen standing in the middle of the dark cellar, glaring at the floor, but as soon as anyone comes near, she disappears. 

What is she doing in the basement one might ask, as she probably had her own room that would be much more comfortable to haunt. And the only one with the answer is the glaring child ghost in the cellar. 

Ghosts Haunting the Castle

Tales of unexplainable hauntings have been circulating throughout Craigdarroch Castle since it was built in the late 1800’s. For instance there have been talks about hearing a piano playing in the dead of the night even if there is no piano in the house. 

On the Grand Staircase it is said that Joan Dunsmuir, the wife of Robert, comes strolling down the stairs in her ballgown. What is particularly strange about her story is that she is never ever seen in other parts of the house she lived in for 18 years, nor is she ever seen walking up those stairs. 

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References:

Haunted Places Series: Craigdarroch Castle | The Inspector Blog 

Craigdarroch Castle The Haunted Place in Victoria, Canada 

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