Castle reveals ambitious future plans
AMBITIOUS plans for the future development of the ancient home of Clan Donald have been revealed.
Armadale Castle, Gardens and Museum in Sleat, Isle of Skye, announced the plans for the estate at an event in the stables on the castle grounds on Thursday March 22, writes Sara Bain.
In attendance were representatives from local tourist organisations, VisitScotland and interested individuals who came to hear what the future holds for the historic Skye attraction.
The plans include the creation of new jobs in the gardens and café and collaborative opportunities with local organisations.
A newly-appointed garden project manager will help develop new initiatives in the Historic Environment Scotland Designated Landscape, while a new café-bar-restaurant within the stables, in collaboration with the team behind Deli Gasta in Broadford, will create openings for a chef and waiting staff.
Consultants RAA, the team behind a host of projects such as the recent revamp of the National Museum of Scotland, have been working with museum staff over the winter to review the offer and develop proposals for future development.
Christine Davis, marketing manager, said: ‘It was great to see so many businesses from across Skye at our launch event. We’ve had a huge amount of positive feedback and are really looking forward to the coming season, especially to welcoming visitors to our new café and exhibition.’
The venue’s 2018 programme involves a number of collaborations with the Sleat community, including an exhibition to explore the impact of the First World War in Skye with Sleat Primary School and High Life Highland and an extensive musical programme with the help of SEALL (Skye Events for All).
Coming Home: World War I in the Highlands is the theme for the temporary exhibitions gallery in Armadale’s Museum of the Isles this year.
The programme is a collaboration with High Life Highland, which operates venues including Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.
Sue Geale, museum manager and member of the committee, commented: ‘We have been working hard over the winter to put in place a number of exciting new initiatives. We are pleased to be partnering with local organisations such as SEALL and High Life Highland. It looks set to be another busy season and we’re looking forward to welcoming friends and visitors from around the globe.’