Culzean Castle And Country Park

The Castle
Robert Adam converted a rather ordinary fortified tower house into this elegant bachelor residence for David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis, between 1777 and 1792. He also built a Roman viaduct and Ruined Arch to add drama to this Italianate castle in its spectacular clifftop setting. Both the exterior stonework and the interior of the castle have been restored by the Trust. It contains a fine collection of paintings and furniture, and a display of weapons in the Armoury. The Circular Saloon has a superb panoramic view over the Firth of Clyde and the beautiful Oval Staircase is Robert Adams final masterpiece of interior design.
In 1945 the top floor was given to General Eisenhower as a token of Scotlands recognition of his role during World War II. His apartment is now run as a small country house hotel, and an Eisenhower Exhibition in the castle tells something of Ike the man and his visits to Culzean. The Georgian Kitchen gives a glimpse of life below stairs 200 years ago.
Educational programmes and tours are available. Through the Clocktower Courtyard, a coach-house and stables have been converted
into the Castle Shop and Old Stables Coffee House.
The Country Park
Scotlands first country park, created in 1969 and consisting of 228 ha (563 a) contains a wealth of natural and historical interest. Miles of woodland walks take the visitor to the Deer Park, along the Cliff Walk or to the many restored estate buildings, such as the Ruined Arch and Viaduct, beautiful Camellia House and unique Pagoda. Garden areas include the terraced Fountain Court and the Walled Garden with its redesigned pleasure garden and impressive reconstructed Victorian Vinery.
The exciting adventure playground introduces children to the wildlife of the park and makes the Swan Pond a perfect spot for a family picnic.
The Visitor Centre, formerly the Home Farm, is the focus for the main visitor facilities. These include the Home Farm Restaurant, the Home Farm Shop, the Country Park Shop and Plant Centre. The new auditorium and exhibition at the Visitor Centre explain the history of Culzean and the Trusts conservation work, and there are smaller interpretive centres at the Gas House, Ice House and Swan Pond. Three miles of coastline provide panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde.

Opening Hours

Castle and Walled Garden: 30 March to 31 Oct, daily 10.305 (last entry 4).
Country Park: all year, daily 9.30sunset.
Visitor Centre: 30 March to 31 Oct, daily 9.305.30; 1 Nov to 29 March, Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun 114.
Other visitor facilities: 30 March to 31 Oct, daily 10.305.30.

Contact

Enquiries

Maybole
South Ayrshire
Ayrshire
KA19 8LE
Scotland

Tel: +44 (8701) 181945
Tel: +44 (1655) 884455
Fax: +44 (1655) 884522
E-Mail: culzean@nts.org.uk
WWW: http://www.nts.org.uk