Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle, a majestic Edwardian estate on Vancouver Island’s South Island, stands as a historical gem just 14 km from Victoria. Nestled within the 565-acre Hatley Park National Historic Site, this 1908 castle boasts stunning architecture with its ivy-clad stone walls and turrets, surrounded by manicured gardens and old-growth forest. The Italian Garden, with its vibrant flowerbeds, and the serene Japanese Garden offer peaceful retreats for visitors. Overlooking the Esquimalt Lagoon, the castle provides sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains. A symbol of elegance and history, Hatley Castle invites travelers to step back in time while exploring its lush grounds, making it a must-visit for those seeking a blend of heritage and natural beauty near British Columbia’s capital.

Hatley Castle was commissioned in 1908 by James Dunsmuir, a coal baron and former BC premier, designed by architect Samuel Maclure in the Scottish Baronial style. Completed in just 18 months, it served as the Dunsmuir family home until 1937, later becoming a military college from 1940 to 1995. Today, it’s part of Royal Roads University, housing administrative offices, but its grounds are open to the public. The castle’s interior, with its oak-paneled rooms and grand staircase, is occasionally accessible for guided tours or events like the Hatley Park Christmas Festival. The estate features the Rose Garden, a croquet lawn, and trails through Garry oak meadows, home to deer and rare birds. The Hatley Park Museum offers insights into the Dunsmuir era, while nearby Colwood beaches provide opportunities for coastal exploration.

About Hatley Castle

Photo Gallery

Location

Nearby Locations

Victoria Harbour

Goldstream Park

Butchart Garden