Ayrshire Castle
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Overview
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Just how amazing would it be to stay in an ancient castle for a week! Ayrshire Castle comes with a fascinating history, a fabulous warm atmosphere and an endless list of nods from its glorious past. This exclusive Scottish holiday home at the foot of Law Hill has enjoyed many lives since it was built in the fifteenth century as a wedding gift for Princess Mary, daughter of James II of Scotland and her husband Thomas Boyd, the Earl of Arran. Its colourful history includes life as a court, life as a prison and six hundred years later, life as this one of a kind holiday home for up to fourteen guests. When booking Ayrshire Castle, you will be enjoying a holiday enveloped in stone walls and surrounded by tapestries, ancient relics, stone baths and a lavish atmosphere. The castle is surrounded by lush green lawns and amazing scenery. From its roof you can admire the Forth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran.
From its West Kilbride location, guests can enjoy golf at a number of world-famous courses, enjoy strolls on the Ayrshire coastal shoreline, fish in rivers and lochs or pop into the buzzy cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh on a shopping trip. Bookish guests will be in awe exploring Scotland’s literary past in the birthplace of the poet Robert Burns. West Kilbride enjoys some charming craft studios, galleries and some wonderful eateries. Ayrshire enjoys a rich history and heritage with the famous William Wallace and Robert the Bruce having their roots based here. The very first Scottish Parliament was held in Ayr following the Battle of the Bannockburn. Mary Stuart was born at Linlithgow Palace, the daughter of James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise.
Ayrshire Castle enjoys a fabulous blend of the medieval and the contemporary. Throughout the castle you will discover majestic four-poster beds, velvet drapes, wood burning stoves and flamboyant tapestries alongside a large television, iPod dock and underfloor heating. As well as modern roll-top baths, you will discover a unique stone one. The castle offers five floors with a spiral stone staircase connecting them all. The ground floor boasts two atmospheric vaulted rooms, one a utility room and the other the first of the six bedrooms. With regal style and plenty of charm, it also offers a one-of-a-kind ensuite bathroom. The first floor is home to the Great Hall and kitchen and the remaining levels are home to the remaining five bedrooms, bathrooms and a sitting room. The staircase continues to the roof level where there is an unusual ‘Caphouse’, formally the guard’s lookout.
The castle’s six bedrooms all enjoy their own personality, all reflecting the character of the castle. The Dungeon bedroom offers a quirky ‘ode to a drawbridge’ bed and a stone bathroom. You will think you have gone back in time but still enjoy the luxury of crisp cotton sheets. Above, you will find a four poster on a platform, heavenly surrounded by voile, you will find a heavily carved four poster surrounded by heavy, colourful drapes, you will find a four poster with a beautifully carved headboard and another with a tapestry backdrop. Most of the rooms enjoy a wood burning fire for chilly evenings. Tartan features throughout, another welcome feature. There are five bathrooms in all, some ensuite but all easily accessible to guests.
The Grand Hall and kitchen is absolutely fabulous, so characterful and charming. The kitchen has been fashioned out of what would have been the original cooking chimney at the far end of this magical space. It boasts a four ovened Aga, perfect for hearty breakfasts and delicious feasts. The atmospheric dining space comes next under vintage lighting followed by your attractive living space with its stone chimney, wood burning stove, sofa and chairs.
Ayrshire Castle certainly offers a unique and memorable stay. It is an ideal venue for photo shoots, for intimate weddings, corporate events and family and friends get togethers.
What you should know…
- The five floors are linked by a stone spiral staircase which is not ideal for guests with mobility issues or for very young children
- The private garden is not fully enclosed so please keep an eye on adventurous children
- Please let us know if you are celebrating a special occasion and would like to know about extra services that can be provided
- Should you be thinking about Ayrshire Castle as a wedding venue, please note that marquees cannot be put up in the grounds
Property Features
Vault Level/ Ground Floor
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom
- Utility kitchen
First Floor
- Great hall
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Cloakroom
Second Floor
- Bedroom with double bed with access to jack & jill en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed with access to jack & jill en-suite shower room
Third Floor
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom
- Bedroom with double bed
Fourth Floor
- Master bedroom suite with double bed and dressing area
- Family bathroom
- Living room with sofa bed (ideal for 2 small children)
Exterior Grounds
- 1 acre of gardens
Additional Facilities
- Internet
- TV & DVD
- Washing machine & dryer
- Travel cot & highchair available on request
- Parking for 6 cars
Location
About the surrounding area of Ayrshire CastleAyrshire Castle enjoys a fabulous location at the foot of Law Hill in West Kilbride. It is an excellent location for history lovers, golfers and anyone that loves the outdoors and exploring the coast. The roof of the castle offers excellent panoramic views of West Kilbride, Forth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran.
West Kilbride is a small town in north Ayrshire, four miles north east of Ardrossan. It boasts an excellent golf course and a wonderful array of craft shops, studios and galleries, being know as Scotland’s first craft town. The Barony Centre is a fabulous exhibition space with a cafe. You can enjoy art and history displays in the West Kilbride Museum on the first floor of the village hall.
This area is a golfer’s paradise with courses including the Turnberry Golf Course, Royal Troon Golf Course, Prestwick Golf Course and the local West Kilbride Golf Course. The local course was founded in 1893 with every tee offering players a sea view from the Kyles of Bute to the Heads of Ayr. It boasts 6523 yards of championship golf over eighteen holes together with practice areas including two putting greens, a chipping green, practice bunkers and nets for driving. The course also offers a lounge, restaurant and a professional coach. Visitors are welcome to play by prior arrangement.
Ayr Racecourse is Scotland’s premier racecourse and home to the Scottish Grand National and the Ayr Gold Cup. The racecourse is also the venue of some fabulous events such as Gok Wan performing a DJ set and many others taking to the decks following various prestigious races. You should check out the racedays and see if there is one when you are taking your holiday.
Visitors enjoy trips to Clyde Marina at Ardrossan with its clear waters, abundance of wildlife, spectacular scenery and its fabulous local cuisine. There are some fantastic restaurants where you can dine with a view. Adrossan is a historic port town with the marina, sandy beaches and stunning views over the Firth of Clyde. It lies on the north side of Irvine Bay between Irvine and Largs. Shipbuilding was one of Ardrossan’s most important industries in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and today it is home of the ferry port to the Isle of Arran. The town’s two beaches are perfect for coastal walks with pretty cafes and tearooms. Largs Yacht Haven is a fantastic sailing destination with a bustling, very busy marina.
The mesmerising Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful and iconic places in Scotland. It lies in the heart of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park where you will be surrounded by charming, characterful villages and rolling countryside. The loch is 190 metres deep with a shoreling of 153 km. You can enjoy a romantic loch-side amble, a vigorous hike, fun watery adventures, a round of golf or you can explore the islands of the loch. There are dedicated cruises, the Loch Lomond Waterbus ferry service or your can hire boats.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Glasgow or Prestwick
(21-25 km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Ardrossan
(5 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
West Kilbride
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Glasgow or Ayr
(21-25 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
West Kilbride
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
West Kilbride
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
West Kilbride
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Seamill
(1 km) |
||
Region
Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in Ayrshire, Scotland
Welcome to Oliver's Travels, where we unveil a treasure trove of luxury getaways in Ayrshire that redefine the meaning of holiday bliss! Picture this: enchanting cottages, lodges, farmhouses and even castles sprinkled across Ayrshire's vibrant coastal towns, championship golf course perimeters, historic villages and the birthplace of Scotland's literary legend, Robert Burns. Oh, and did we mention the magical Isle of Arran is also in the mix?
Ayrshire, nestled on the southwestern coast of Scotland, is like a dreamy fusion of nature's wonders, historical gems and lively communities. Imagine rolling hills that seem to dance, rugged coastlines that tell tales, charming towns that beckon and villages so quaint they are practically hugging you.
Right in the beating heart of Ayrshire lies Ayr, a coastal town that will sweep you off your feet with its sandy beaches and panoramic views of the Firth of Clyde. Troon, another gem, hosts the Open Championship, drawing golf enthusiasts like bees to honey. And who could resist Troon's marina, offering not just delightful waterfront dining but also leisurely strolls that scream relaxation?
Irvine, with its rich history and the Scottish Maritime Museum, takes you on a captivating journey through maritime heritage. If you are up for family picnics and outdoor adventures, Eglinton Country Park is your haven. Meanwhile, Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, is a literary enthusiast's paradise with the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum stealing the spotlight. The Burns National Heritage Park adds a scenic backdrop to your exploration, creating a poetic dance with nature.
Nature lovers, hold on to your hats! The Isle of Arran, nicknamed "Scotland in Miniature," awaits with its diverse landscapes brimming with towering mountains, lush forests, serene beaches and an array of thrilling adventures. Hop on a short ferry ride, and you are in for an unforgettable ride!
But that is not all. Ayrshire is a living canvas painted with historic landmarks. Culzean Castle, a true architectural marvel, boasts lush gardens and woodlands that whisper tales of a bygone era. On Arran, the standing stones of Machrie Moor stand as ancient sentinels, offering a mystical glimpse into prehistoric Scotland.
Ayrshire isn't just a region. It is a captivating story that unfolds with every step you take. Whether you are exploring the lively towns of Ayr and Irvine, soaking in the literary wonders of Alloway or diving into the magic of Arran, Ayrshire is your front-row seat to the best of Scottish culture and landscapes. Get ready for a holiday that blends seclusion, fun, adventure, peace and beauty into an unforgettable symphony!
Ah, bonnie Scotland! A wild and beautiful part of the world, where you can explore the rugged highlands or enjoy the colour and vibrancy of cultural capitals like Edinburgh and Glasgow.
But how do you know you’re getting the very best out of your trip? That’s where we come in. If you’ve had a browse through our range of luxury cottages and castles in Scotland, you’ll know there’s some great places to stay, but to find all the great things to do, see and eat you’ll need our handy Scotland travel guide – so read on and enjoy!
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesCan you just imagine how children would feel at the prospect of being little princes and princesses for the week! Imagine them telling their friends that they are going to stay in a Scottish castle! They just love finding the mystery spots and sleeping in a four poster bed. Ayrshire Castle makes an excellent choice for families travelling with older children, who will get the opportunity for a real historical education staying in a castle which was first built in 1422!
There are plenty of wonderful activities close to the castle. The Scottish Paintball Centre is located near Fenwick, twenty minutes from Ayr. It offers high quality paintballing and special ops laser scenario games.
The Heads of Ayr Farm Park is an excellent attraction with plenty of exciting activities including bumper boats, water activites, elecric tractors and diggers, a playpark, giant sand pit, trampolines, ringo sledging, a giant aerial runway and jumping pillows. Quad biking is also available for children aged 7 and over. The sheltered Play ‘n’ Wild adventure barn boasts three giant drop slides and a two storey soft play area. Children can also visit the Little Critters Animal Barn to see the rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and birds or the animal zone to see Ralph the Camel, Troy the Tapir, llamas, ponies, donkeys and goats.
The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a celebration of the enduring legacy of Scotland’s national poet. Children enjoy visiting the humble cottage where he was born and seeing his handwritten manuscripts. They can follow in Tam o’Shanter’s footsteps for atmospheric Alloway Auld Kirk and over the Brig o’Doon. Afterwards, you can celebrate his legacy of Burns with haggis, neeps and tatties in the museum cafe.
Horse loving children enjoy the Ayrshire Equitation Centre with its 74 acres of pasture and 55 years of equestrian excellence. They are approved by the Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland and highly commended by the Scottish Tourist Board, catering for all ages and all levels from complete beginners to competition level.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Beach Nearby
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
Onsite Facilities
- DVD
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
At Oliver’s Travels, we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services, we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team, who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
Ayrshire Castle is a superb venue for an intimate wedding. Originally built in the fifteenth century...
Read moreEvent information
Ayrshire Castle is a superb venue for an intimate wedding. Originally built in the fifteenth century as a wedding gift for Princess Mary, daughter of James II of Scotland and her husband Thomas Boyd, the Earl of Arran, the venue offers a colourful history, a lavish atmosphere and bucket loads of character and charm. With opulent furnishings, ancient relics yet blissful modern amenities, you will make dreamy wedding memories here. Your ceremony and the reception will take place in the Great Hall, and during the day, you can enjoy amazing scenery, admiring the Forth of Clyde and the Isle of Aran. Ayrshire Castle promises an atmospheric alternative to a traditional church wedding and allows you to enjoy every second of your day!
Indoor Capacity - 30-40
Outdoor Capacity – 0
Wedding Ceremony
The ceremony would take place in the Great Hall. The property is fully licenced for legal marriages.
Wedding Reception
A reception with up to 40 people can take place in the Great Hall for a standing buffet, seated up to 14 people could be hosted. Dancing could continue in the Great Hall if space is cleared with music until midnight and the event finishing by 1 am. Unfortunately, the venue cannot accommodate marquees. All events are to take place in the Great Hall.
Additional Fees for Events
No additional fees or usual holiday rental costs apply.
Restrictions on Decorations and Themes
There are no restrictions. You are welcome to bring your creative ideas!
Wedding Planning
The client may provide their own planner or planning.
Catering
There is no in-house catering. You are welcome to use the caterers of your choice. Drinks to be provided by the client with no corkage fees.
Wedding Packages
Day before events permitted and extra costs apply.
Where To Stay
Up to 14 people can sleep at the castle. Nearby, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs where guests can find accommodation. The owners can supply details of local transportation firms.
Venue Accessibility
The venue is easily accessible via public transportation. There is limited parking available. There is limited wheelchair accessibility. Please enquire for details.
Venue Back-Up
The ceremony and reception would be inside the castle.
Wedding Suppliers
A list of recommended vendors, such as photographers, florists, and DJs, can be offered, but you are welcome to use your own suppliers.
Flexibility on Duration
Yes, please enquire for details.
Children
Children are welcome, but there are no childcare services available.
Security Measures
Limited security measures in place, guests are responsible for their belongings.
Noise Restrictions
Noise should be minimised after a certain hour to respect the neighbours. No music outside after 9 pm, and events should finish by 1 am.
Other Information
No short stays in July & August. Events are to end by 1 am.
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | £150 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4pm |
| Departure time | 10am |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £150 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4pm |
| Departure time | 10am |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. |
| Changeover day | Flexible |
| Minimum stay | Please note that there is a 2-night minimum stay, this may be increased to 7-nights across peak dates |
| Pets welcome? | No pets |
| Smoking Allowed? | No smoking |
Please note that this home is best suited for families. The property is strictly no stag, hen do’s or single sex groups and the property owner reserves the right to cancel the booking and retain the security deposit if guests do not comply on arrival.
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 14 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 22nd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £7,356 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Mar 28th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £5,206 |
| Mar 28th 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 | £3,282 | £3,622 | £3,961 | £4,300 | £5,206 |
| Jun 28th 2025 - Aug 29th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £5,206 |
| Aug 29th 2025 - Sep 27th 2025 | £3,282 | £3,622 | £3,961 | £4,300 | £5,206 |
| Sep 27th 2025 - Nov 27th 2025 | £3,282 | £3,622 | £3,961 | £4,300 | £5,206 |
| Nov 27th 2025 - Dec 15th 2025 | £3,282 | £3,622 | £3,961 | £4,300 | £5,206 |
| Dec 15th 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £6,337 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Jun 25th 2026 | - | - | - | - | £7,356 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
-
Fabulous
What a brilliant beautiful place to stay at. We all had the most wonderful time. Every bit was great and the spiral stairs gave us a real feel of time gone by
Thank you to Kate the lovely owner who met us and helped in every way. This was the perfect birthday present for my wonderful brother who is castle mad.
Highly recommend this experience, thank you Oliver’s Travels for your help as well
A experience that will remain forever
Lorna Mathews -
Fantastic!
Fantastic property with each floor having a different ‘theme’, all beds were four posters. We are definitely going to this property again.
-
Castle Life at its Peak
The castle was great and full of character. My Grandchildren loved seeing the selection of artefacts. The castle was very well equipped and the beds were very comfortable, especially the four poster beds. The views from the roof of the castle were superb. Altogether a very enjoyable stay and would highly recommend this Castle.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
