Pioneering role for Brodick Castle

Brodick Castle on Arran will remain closed for the remainder of 2018.

The castle has been undergoing a £1.5 million refit designed to safeguard the structure and its world-class collections of art and artefacts from the threat of fire.

The Trust’s General Manager for Ayrshire and Arran, Stuart Maxwell said:

‘The works will be completed by May but we have taken the decision to keep the castle closed until the new season in 2019.

‘This disappointment is tempered by the fact that the spectacular gardens and grounds of the castle remain open, as well as our brand-new, spectacular, natural-heritage-themed Isle be Wild adventure play area.

‘But there is actually very good news for Brodick Castle and the people of Arran behind our decision – the castle is to be the proving ground for our fresh approach to interpretation and presentation of the Trust’s properties.’

Dr David Hopes, Head of Collections and Interiors Policy, has recently completed a major review. This will inform the way in which the objects held in the castle will be displayed.

He said: ‘Our new approach is not about the importance of these objects and the artwork in our care – we already know how valuable these items are to Scotland’s cultural heritage – but how we manage and utilise them to tell our collective stories.

‘One of the key words used in the review was “drama” – we are going to find new and exciting ways to tell these stories, and Brodick Castle will be our pathfinder in doing so.

‘We will be investing £3 million over the next five years in improving the condition of our collections and enhancing visitor understanding and enjoyment.’

In 2018 research will be undertaken to help prepare the new displays in the castle. A new team will also be recruited in order to bring the new visitor experience to life.

Stuart Maxwell added:

‘We are going to use the time to make sure we get this right. By next year we will have a new visitor experience in place that will do justice to the magnificent collections in Brodick Castle. It will again take its rightful place as a must-see destination that attracts more visitors to Arran and engages local people and visitors alike in compelling stories from the island’s long history.’