My Most Memorable Castle Experiences

I’ve been fortunate to stay at many of the castles in our portfolio over the years. One particular highlight was taking part in The Cookery School at Swinton Estate. Our whole team attended, and our competitive streaks certainly surfaced during the ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’-style challenge. Swinton’s enormous estate offers a remarkable range of on-site activities for guests - whether for individual leisure or large-scale corporate events.

A December morning at Killochan Castle Each year, usually in December in the run-up to Christmas, our team sets off together on a castle tour. This is one of my favourite times of year, as many of the castles transform into festive wonderlands with towering fir trees, lush garlands, atmospheric lighting, and - of course - all the better enjoyed with a warming Mulled Wine or glass of Fizz in hand! Killochan Castle, Carlton Towers, and Broughton Hall all stand out for their spectacular Christmas displays.

Being a romantic at heart, I’m especially fond of castles with their own chapels. They make enchanting venues for couples wishing to marry within a historic setting. For intimate vow exchanges, Forter Castle’s small chapel is simply perfect. Meanwhile, Cluny Castle provides a breathtaking backdrop for grand celebrations, with its soaring vaulted ceiling, dark oak pews, and magnificent stained-glass windows.

My Other Interests

I am blessed with a wonderful family, and spending time with them is my top priority. My adult daughters both live and work abroad, giving me the perfect excuse to travel regularly - another passion of mine, and, in my view, one of life’s greatest forms of education. I’m also a keen-ish runner. This year, I’ve set myself the challenge of completing sixty 10K runs in my sixtieth year. Running provides a meditative escape for me, as well as a great way to stay fit.