Dundonald Castle is a fortified tower house built for Robert II on his accession to the throne of Scotland in 1371 and it was used as a royal residence by the early Stewart kings for the next 150 years. It was said to be Robert II’s favourite residence and where he died in 1390.
The present Castle was built on the remains of an earlier stone castle built in the 13th century by the High Steward of Scotland as part of the country’s defences against the Vikings.
The High Stewards occupied Dundonald Castle from the mid 12th century and with the accession of Robert II this family gave rise to the Stewart Dynasty that ruled Scotland and later Great Britain for 350 years. Although the Great Hall on the top floor is now roofless, the Lower Hall features a fine example of a medieval barrel-vaulted ceiling, and there is a small dungeon with an obliette below it. Outside, the western wall of the castle features 5 stone carved heraldic shields which are among the oldest in the country.
Enjoy a day out at a traditional Highland Games. The Dundonald Highland Games is one of Ayrshire's premier cultural events, and it is free. A whole range of entertainment and activities is on offer with pipe band contest, drum majors, solo piping, highland dancing,...
Dundonald Links is now recognised as one of the best new courses in the world. The design ambition, "to create a championship Ayrshire links course that felt and played as though it was an old rediscovered course" was achieved and reflects the world class links of its...
Barassie Links Championship Layout still presents even the best golfer with a challenge.
The course offers a mix of the old and the new. Nine holes from the original course and a new nine built in 1997. Four sets of tees - Red, Yellow, White and Blue - offer a...
Western Gailes' pedigree dates back to 1897 and offers a mixture of traditional and modern golf. The course is highly rated in various league tables of worldwide courses. Severe bunker placement and natural contours of the land provide a challenging links experience....
The Old Loans Inn is a charming country pub and restaurant with some of the finest bedrooms in Ayrshire. This four-star property retains all the charm of the original 18th Century Coaching Inn and combines modern living and understated luxury to ensure guests...
No.2 Troon Road is a Four Star Bed & Breakfast, located in Loans, a picturesque village situated at the north end of Troon. We are fortunate to enjoy stunning rural views and have immediate access to the excellent amenities of the old town of Troon (the gateway to...
Kidron House Hotel is a 14 bedroom family run hotel which has just been fully upgraded. We love to give our guests that personal touch ! Golfing enthusiasts need no look further. Kidron House has 18 golf courses ranging in difficulty and prices all within a short drive...
This award-winning four-star hotel has it all. Distinctive modern accommodation includes 40 well-appointed bedrooms with the focal point undoubtedly the recently refurbished Penthouse Apartment. The Gailes Penthouse is the ultimate in luxury retreats with private spa...
Costley's Patisserie offers the most indulgent experience with cakes, pastries, foods and ice-creams all hand made by Costley & Costley. Using the finest ingredients our chefs produce the most exquisite culinary creations for you to enjoy.
Costley and Costley is...
Rozelle House and estate flourished throughout the 18th and 19th Centuries, but by the 1960s the Hamilton family were struck by high death duties and taxation which led to the sale of much of the surrounding land. In 1968 the House, with sadly little of its historic...
The museum has the world's best and biggest Burns collection. It's full of objects to explore, games and activities to take part in. Listen to recodings of his poems and songs. The museum serves as a focal point for the area in which Burns grew up. Visit the cottage ...
Situated within an area of outstanding natural beauty, Brig o' Doon House offers a sumptuous and relaxing retreat in the heart of historical Ayrshire the very birthplace of Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns. With picturesque manicured gardens which amble down...
