Mar Lodge had an open day on Sunday, and so I thought I'd pop up and visit, having not been there in a while. It is an old Victorian hunting lodge, originally built by the first Duke of Fife, and now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. It's actually the third Mar Lodge, however. The first was damaged in the 'muckle spate' of 1829 and the rebuild was relocated to higher ground at nearby Corriemulzie. The second was destroyed by fire in 1895, and rebuilt at the original location. The current building you see in the photo was started that same year.
In 1962, Mar Lodge was bought by a couple of Swiss businessmen (the Panchaud brothers) who ran it as a sporting hotel. It was subsequently bought by John Kluge, once the richest man in America, apparently, but was damaged by fire in 1991. The National Trust for Scotland bought the property in 1995. The interior of the lodge has now been converted into holiday apartments, and given that there is also a small chapel in the grounds, it is a popular wedding venue.
Interesting narrative behind this historical building. Lots of fiery things going on! It’s very beautiful, with that hill behind it. Perfect place for a wedding.
Barry & Jo our daughters friends whom you have met had both their daughters weddings there so I have seen lots of photos of that amazing stag hall! Never seen the outside like this though so good to see.
@happypat The Stag Hall is just to the left of this image. It's quite impressive, but, funnily enough, when I was inside on Sunday, it felt smaller than I remembered! A great venue for a wedding!
