Ardrossan Castle
Ayrshire
The Castle fortification was part of a beacon network protecting the Clyde Coast, perhaps as far back as Neolithic times. Ardrossan was once a port linking Scotland to Ireland and the Isle of Mann. Lord Fergus de Ardrossan was the only signatory to the Declaration of Arbroath from the West Coast of Scotland, linking Ardrossan to power centres of Scotland’s nobility in the East Coast. Additionally, a Royal entourage headed by Lord Governor Earl James Hamilton (Regent for the infant Mary Queen of Scots) travelled to Ardrossan Castle to settle a matter of dispute. The Bishop of Orkney and Abbots of Paisley and Cupar were among those in attendance. Ardrossan was chosen to host the resolution meeting between the Lords of the Isles as an easily accessible space for the Lords’ ships. The so-called ‘Kings Road’, the ancient burial route from Edinburgh to Iona for our Scottish Kings, passes directly through Ardrossan lands.
Ardrossan Castle will be open to visitors to enjoy the Castle grounds on their own, or alongside the passionate volunteers of Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society who will provide groups tours of Ardrossan Castle and Parish Church. Visitors will hear about the history of the castle and inhabitants, as well as the community archaeology projects conducted by the Society. Various children’s activities will be hosted at different times during the day. Special events will be held this year to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ardrossan Castle becoming a protected monument in Scotland.
Guided tours on request throughout the day - meet at Castle gates atop the hill.
Facilities
Additional Access Information
Car park: via Hill Place, Ardrossan, KA22 8HX
Gallery
Key Information
Booking not required.
Where to find us
Address
- Castle Hill
- Ardrossan
- KA22 8HX