Robbie to have birthday bash at Skibo Castle

Published on Sunday 21 March 2004 00:00

POP superstar Robbie Williams is to celebrate his 30th birthday at a surprise party thrown for him at the exclusive Scottish resort Skibo Castle.

The singer is expected to arrive early this week at the castle, in Dornoch, Sutherland, for a five-day party with his close friends.

The Highland resort, where rooms cost 1,300 a night, is where Madonna married film director Guy Ritchie in December 2000.

It is thought about 50 guests will be heading by helicopter to the luxury venue, where presenters Ant and Dec will present a spoof version of the TV show Family Fortunes - a favourite of the pop star’s.

Williams’ parents and his best friend, Jonathan Wilkes, are expected to be among the guests.

Although it was the star’s 30th birthday last month, the party at Skibo was supposed to be a surprise.

Williams, whose hits include ‘Let Me Entertain You’ and ‘Millennium’, had been kept in the dark over the party, largely organised by his sister, Sally.

An insider reportedly said: "Robbie is at home until the autumn and his family and management have been planning this for months. They were keen to do something special to mark his birthday while he was back in Britain."

He has already had one birthday celebration at his Los Angeles mansion. Following that party, Sally and her long-term partner Paul Symonds got married in a spur-of-the-moment ceremony in Las Vegas.

Madonna put Skibo Castle on the map as a celebrity destination with her wedding, which was attended by actress Gwyneth Paltrow and rock star Sting.

The castle is regarded as one of the most secure spots for celebrities to stay, and security has never been breached for any of its high-profile events.

The lavish rooms feature marble and mosaic floors, and guests can enjoy shooting, fishing and horse riding on the large estate.

The castle was sold last year by Peter de Savary to an American buyer for 27m.