A scheduled ancient monument, Portencross Castle holds a special place in the hearts of local residents. The iconic structure, overlooking the Firth of Clyde, has been inhabited for thousands of years, with remains dating back to the Iron Age. The castle itself was constructed in the 14th century, and for the next 300 years it was to witness all manner of wild nights, peaking in January 1739 when a fierce gale took the roof off. Undaunted, the rest of the castle has remained standing proudly, its stone walls as stout as the day they were built. Open from April through autumn, Portencross has undergone substantial conservation work in recent years. During the restoration, the entrance to a prison pit was discovered under the castle’s spiral staircase. It’s just one of many dark secrets waiting to entrance visitors to the weathered monument. During the summer months, the castle regularly hosts art exhibitions, coffee mornings and other such events. As you stand on the battlements and gaze across the water, you’ll be struck not only by the serenity, but by the symbiotic relationship Scotland enjoys with the sea. Fishermen have plied their trade here for thousands of years and today the bay is still teeming with marine life. Visit Portencross for the history. Stay for the scenery.
There are currently no offers or promotions for Portencross
Find More Offers & Promotions
Address:
West Kilbride
North Ayrshire
Ayr
KA23 9QA
Telephone:
01294 823799
Website:
www.portencrosscastle.org.uk
Worth a visit if you are in the area. Its a beautiful setting and it was a scorching day when we went. The two guides were really excellent and gave us an introduction and then let us look around. The top of the castle offers stunning views over to Arran and the surrounding area. Free entrance but you can make a donation. They also host weddings.
-
Jennifer M -
29-01-2022
Nice for a wee bit of local history but has no public toilets or place for a cuppa and sandwiches
-
Kay Mcbirnie -
20-03-2017
We stumbled across this little-known place one day when travelling back from a trip to Kelburn Country Estate. I have seen the signposts before, but as it was a gorgeous sunny day I wanted to try something different. I am so glad we went, and there was a wedding being held in the castle on the day so it can be booked for functions as well. It has been beautifully restored to its former glory and the views are incredible from every angle.
-
Tamara Campbell -
12-10-2016
