Tourism - Girvan and Carrick

In and Around Girvan

Girvan

Knockcushan Gardens

A memorial in Knockcushan Gardens commemorates King Robert the Bruce holding court here in 1328. Bruce, 5th Earl of Carrick was born at Turnberry in 1274.

McKechnie Institute

Local Museum and Carrick Arts Centre. All year round exhibition programme including local artists, local history and Ailsa Craig. Open all year Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm also Mondays 11am to 4pm (July and August).
Tel : (01465) 713643.

Ailsa Craig

Granite rock, 1,114 feet high, circumference two miles is the plug of an extinct volcano and is now a bird sanctuary. Also remains of ruined castle to be seen. Boat trips around the island from Girvan. Situated 10 miles west.

Ballantrae

Ardstinchar Castle

Now a ruin, Mary Queen of Scots sheltered here on 8th August 1566.

Colmonell

Kirkhill Castle

16th century Kennedy Castle now in ruins situated on A765.

Knockdolian Castle

16th century tower house now owned by the Duchess of Wellington, situated one mile west of Colmonell on the River Stinchar.

Dailly

Bargany Estate Gardens

Splendid woodland walks and picnic areas situated on B734 four miles east of Girvan.

Dalquharran Castle (old and new)

15th century mansion now in ruin near Dailly. New Dalquharran was a Robert Adam Mansion and sadly now is a roofless ruin. Built around 1786 on a prominent position above the Old Castle.

Killochan Castle

Substantial fortified house still a private residence on B741 four miles north east of Girvan.

Lendalfoot

Carleton Castle

One in link of Kennedy watchtowers along the coast, now a ruin. Off A77 six miles south of Girvan.

Old Dailly

Old Dailly Church

Church is attributed to period not later than 14th century. Piscina still remains in wall within tomb of Bargany family in east end of building. Situated three miles east of Girvan.

Penkill Castle

Imposing 15th century castle with additions dating through to 19th century. Favourite haunt of pre-Raphaelites, Dante Rosetti having written poems here. Now a private residence.

Pinwherry

Pinwherry Castle

Ruined 16th century fortified house in Stinchar Valley five miles from Colmonell.

Turnberry

Castle and Lighthouse

Scant remains of castle reputed to be birthplace of Robert the Bruce around 1274. Bruce landed here in 1307 to begin his campaign. Right of way (foot) across golf course.