75th Anniversary Surprise at Blair Castle

Blair Castle celebrated 75 years of public opening today with a special surprise for four lucky visitors. Chris and Joanne Hawkins and their two sons, Jonathan (15) and Matthew (13) were presented with a bottle of Atholl Highlander whisky by Graham Jack, Company Sergeant Major with the Atholl Highlanders regiment. The family later enjoyed a special afternoon tea served on tiered silver cake stands in Blair Castle’s ballroom. The Hawkins family were the 286th visitors to Blair Castle today, the exact number of people who visited Blair Castle on the first day of public opening, 75 years ago, in 1936.

The Hawkins family from Greenwich had been staying in Fort William for a week’s holiday. To escape the rain they had travelled to Blair Castle today but got delayed when their hire car broke down. However bad luck quickly turned to good fortune when they arrived at Blair Castle where they received a warm 75th anniversary welcome from Company Sergeant Major, Graham Jack and complimentary entry. Today’s events form part of a year-long celebration of 75 years of public opening at Blair Castle, 1936 – 2011. Other highlights this year include Afternoon Teas in Blair Castle’s ballroom, 2.30pm – 4.30pm until Sunday 5 June*, a 75th anniversary illumination of Blair Castle’s exterior wall and temporary exhibitions inside the castle. Commemorative items including mugs, tea towels, trinket boxes and cookies are also on sale in Blair Castle’s gift shop.

About Blair Castle’s 75th Anniversary

Blair Castle celebrates 75 years of public opening in 2011. On 1 June 1936, the castle’s first visitors were able to view its remarkable interiors and its many treasures for the first time, a privilege previously extended by invitation only and reserved for such illustrious guests as Queen Victoria and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The first day of public opening attracted 286 people and tours to the top of the tower could be enjoyed for just one penny!

Blair Castle is open daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm until 28th October 2011. For further information about visiting Blair Castle or to book entrance tickets online, please visit www.blair-castle.co.uk.

* Afternoon Tea will not be served on Friday 3 June.