Why Richmond Castle is Worth Visiting

Located in the historic town of Kalutara on Sri Lanka’s south coast, Richmond Castle is a beautiful Edwardian era mansion. It offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past and culture. This magnificent mansion is more than just an old building, however. It tells a tale of love, and legacy that will fascinate tourists and locals alike.

If you’re planning to visit Kalutara and want to travel beyond the beaches and town, Richmond Castle is a must-visit:

Colonial Grandeur

The history of Richmond Castle dates back to the early 20th century (around 1904). It was built by a wealthy Sri Lankan landowner, Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena, who was inspired by the grand mansions of England. The building is a fine example of European colonial architecture in Sri Lanka, which also blends local craftsmanship. Its towers, spacious balconies, verandahs and beautifully manicured gardens, make it a unique landmark in the area.

As you walk through its corridors, visitors can admire the beautiful woodwork, stained glass windows and antique furniture. The architecture tells the story of a bygone era when Sri Lanka was under British rule and affluent families lived in grand estates.

The Castle’s Legacy

What adds to the experience of visiting Richmond Castle is the personal story behind it. Don Arthur de Silva built the castle for his wife, Agnes, just before they married. They planned to fill the grand halls with children.

However, their marriage became strained when they failed to have children. Despite their wealth and status, the couple eventually separated. In his later years he dedicated himself to charity work. He bequeathed Richmond Castle to the Public Trustee Department and wished it to be used as a children’s home. This bittersweet legacy gives the castle a human dimension that many visitors can relate to.

Dive into Sri Lanka’s History

Richmond Castle also gives visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. As you walk through the castle, you’ll learn about the social hierarchy of the time, the lifestyle of the wealthy Sri Lankan families and how colonialism influenced the local traditions and architecture.

The castle is managed by a trust set up by Don Arthur, so the site has been preserved and is open to the public.

Beautiful Surroundings

The castle is surrounded by lush gardens, which are a perfect spot for taking a leisurely stroll. The large lawns, flowers, statues and trees also make it ideal for photography. The well-maintained grounds show much care is taken to preserve the castle’s natural beauty and history.

While Richmond Castle is one of the best places to visit in Kalutara, there are several other attractions in the area as well. You could combine a trip to the mansion with other local experiences like visiting the Kalutara Bodhiya – a sacred Buddhist temple nearby, or relaxing on the nearby beaches.

Easily Accessible and Visitor-Friendly

Located only about 40 kilometres south of Colombo, Richmond Castle is easily accessible by car or public transport. The castle offers guided tours to help you understand the history and significance of each room and artifact. Entrance fees are reasonable, and the site is well signposted from Kalutara town.

At the same time, visiting Richmond Castle supports local tourism in Kalutara and brings in economic benefits to the region. Visitors to Kalutara can also explore nearby towns such as Bentota, home to luxurious boutique hotels like Jetwing Saman Villas.

Whether you are a history buff or love photography, Richmond Castle is certainly worth a visit. It offers visitors a rare opportunity to travel back in time, view the lifestyle of a bygone era and appreciate the blend of cultures that has shaped modern Sri Lanka.