Prior to my first visit to Scotland I had the romantic notion that castles were on every corner. While I did not immediately see any castles surrounding the airport or dotting the M8 I did fall for one in particular after reading a fascinating article on a Christmas afternoon.
Forter Castle in Perthshire was originally built in 1560 and then destroyed by the Duke of Argyll in 1640. For many years the derelict castle remained uninhibited and became yet another ruin in the Scottish countryside. That was until Robert Pooley purchased the property in 1998.
At the time of purchase the stone walls were crumbling, the interior was scarred by fire and the entrance was obstructed by three feet of debris. Mr Pooley hired experienced craftsmen from all over Scotland to restore Forter to its former glory. After restorations were complete Mr Pooley commissioned his daughter Katharine Pooley to design the interiors.
The great hall is an exceptional space with beautiful wool rugs covering flagstone flooring. The main seating area of deep red sofas and leather arm chairs are centered around an enormous open fireplace with tartan rugs and a large ottoman. Also in the great hall is a mahogany dining table that seats 26. The fabric covering the dining chairs is Pooley family tartan. What a fantastic room for hosting a dinner party!
Tomorrow I will introduce you to Katharine Pooley, an amazingly fascinating woman.
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12 comments:
Oh it sounds wonderful! I want to curl up with a book and a glass of red wine by that fireplace!!!
I'll join you Anne!
Can't wait to hear more about Katherine.
In Wales, castles were on pretty much every corner. I passed at least six on my drive to work at a castle every day!
This looks like a nice pocket-sized castle.
How pretty Fairfax!
So interesting! Looking forward to more on Katherine.
Ohhh what a beautiful castle!! Thanks for the post.
I got married in a castle in Ireland (Markree Castle, Co. Sligo) and it was the most wonderful wedding (ok, I know I am biased). We rented it for 24 hours, all guests stayed there, the property is huge and beautiful, with horses for rides. Our (non-religious) ceremony was in the private chapel (that at the time was not restored which made the atmosphere better) and was only lit with candles. I highly recommend a stay at the castles turned hotels/B&Bs!
Thanks style court. Katharine really is amazing.
Oh crafty weasel, what a beautiful description of your wedding day, so romantic!!
Thank the Pooley's for sharing! Lovely!
Looks amazing...makes me want to visit Scotland even more!
Great find!
Thanks Bueller!
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