Situated in the heart of the Highlands in Scotland, The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle is one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, offering members and their guests the chance to sample luxurious accommodation, mouth-watering dining, world-class golf and a fabulous variety of activities, all within the most relaxing and magical location imaginable.
Formerly the summer home of Scots-born US philanthropist and steel magnate, Andrew Carnegie, Skibo Castle offers accommodation of the highest standard both within the castle itself and in 13 family lodges, which are dotted around the 8,000 acre estate.
Learn a little more about our latest addition to the Walpole family in our interview with the club's Managing Director, Gary Gruber, and Chairman, Peter Crome.
Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…
Gary Gruber and Peter Crome: The Carnegie Club was initially established in 1995. In 2003, the club was purchased by Ellis and Eve Short, who had been members themselves since 1999, and who were intent on turning Skibo into a club they could be proud of. Following some 20 years of investment in restoration and enhancements, The Carnegie Club is now regarded as one of the finest residential clubs in the world.
What is your brand best known for?
We are blessed with the most wonderful estate in a magical corner of Scotland, with the focal point being Andrew Carnegie’s former home, Skibo Castle and the surrounding historic buildings and facilities, coupled with a terrific golf course, amazing food offering and accommodation of the highest quality. The Carnegie Club is known for providing sanctuary to our members and their guests away from the pressures and pace of modern life.
What has been a significant achievement in your company’s timeline?
We are proud to be recognised as one of the world's most revered members' clubs, attracting international interest and with a waiting list for membership.
Why do you love the brand?
Both the Skibo Estate and the club are unique and special. We enjoy such a close tie to history, through the ownership of Skibo by Andrew Carnegie and his family for the majority of the 20th century. Yet the modern era of the club allows us to welcome members both young and old, from across the world to our little corner of Scotland. We very much enjoy getting to know these well-travelled, interesting people, whilst conserving the rich history of the estate.
Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?
The Carnegie Club offers a very specific type of British luxury, one based on true Highland hospitality. We are warm and welcoming, down to earth and heartfelt, yet keen to serve and ensure our members and guests have the most fabulous time whilst they are with us.
What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?
Walpole represents the very best in British luxury, and we are keen to connect with our fellow luxury brands in the UK. Being located in the far north of Scotland sometimes means we are a little far from the action, so we hope our membership will help to bridge this for us and enable us to yet further enhance The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle experience.
If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?
We think the exciting thing about Walpole is that there are lots of brands that we are keen to connect with. As we provide our members with accommodation, food and beverage, sport, events and retail, there are a wide range of collaboration opportunities that we see and hope to explore across all sectors.
Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?
We are mid-way through a number of developments at the club, including the introduction of new lodging to our Home Farm courtyard. The launch of an exciting new outdoor activities and adventure division is also under way, centred around a stunning tree house where we will offer a wealth of outdoor activities from clay pigeon shooting and all-terrain vehicles to zip lining, nature trails and so much more. And on the golf course we are developing an indoor golf facility with associated Trackman technology to further enhance our world-renowned Carnegie Links Golf experience.
> Read The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle's Walpole member profile
