In this joyful festive season, Katharine Pooley, one of the most respected, creative, and original British luxury interior designers, are delighted to share her magical Christmas celebrations in a highland retreat, Forter Castle. Embellished with a touch of sophistication and timeless charm, this Christmas at Forter Castle is an intimate and enchanting season for Katharine Pooley and her family, which hopefully be an inspiration in celebrating Christmas with the loved ones.
At the entrance of the castle, the heavy fortified oak and iron front door is beautifully adorned for Christmas, featuring a wreath made from fresh seasonal foliage and a pair of candlelit hurricane lanterns on both sides of the doorway.
The welcoming setup at the front door leads to the Great Hall, with a hand-painted ceiling. The backdrop is perfect for a large Christmas tree which is decorated with bronze and silver baubles from Katharine Pooley’s exclusive collection.
From left to right: Grand Hall at Forter Castle; Exterior of Forter Castle; Fireplace at Forter Castle
The comforting interior is an ideal setting to reconnect and spend quality time with family over a delicious Christmas meal. Each place setup at the dinner table is beautifully embellished with foliage, candlebra, silver elephant figurines by Patrick Mavros and Katharine’s fine, silver-edged porcelain China. Echoing the inviting mood of the Great Hall, the fireplace is also evocative of the castle’s romantic past which has been beautifully restored by Katharine Pooley. Garlands of foliage frame the iconic ceremonial swords above the impressive stone mantlepiece.
Apart from the refined interior, the castle is also set amidst unparalleled views of the snowy Glenisla Hills and beyond which can be captured from the views from the turret windows. The property is also the perfect location for a simple seasonal blessing or carol in the private family chapel, located in the basement.
The castle encapsulates the distinct personalities of Katharine and her family members in the seven bedrooms. For instance, Katharine Pooley’s father’s bedroom is a reflection of seclusion and sophistication. Accessible by a private staircase, his bedroom is a vision of rich fabrics and exquisitely-carved antiques. Higher in the castle, the Lairds room which the main stone spiral staircase is the epitome of grandeur featuring a classic combination of ruby-red bed drapes, tweed-clad walls and an antler chandelier for a restful Christmas Eve.
The luxuriously comfortable furnishings at the castle, roaring fires, decanters filled with fine malt whisky make Forter Castle a home away from home, ensuring that Christmas will be a cosy affair.
