Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
About
Built in 1371, Dundonald Castle is a splendid example of a medieval tower house, with a fine barrel-vaulted ceiling in the lower hall. Sitting on a prominent hilltop in Dundonald village, Dundonald Castle commands fine views over the Firth of Clyde. The castle was built on the site of earlier castles belonging to the High Stewards of Scotland and can be regarded as the cradle of the Stewart Dynasty. Explore the high-vaulted halls and gloomy dungeons of this splendid stronghold, perched on a hill above the village. The main tower was built in the 1370s by King Robert II to mark his succession to the throne. The Castle Visitor Centre includes an exhibition illustrating the history of the site and a display of some of the artefacts found during archaeological excavations on the hill. There is also a souvenir shop and a small coffee shop which also sells cakes, soup and sandwiches. The Castle and Visitor Centre are open all year round.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes