Hunterston Castle

Located in West Kilbride, North Ayrshire, Scotland, Hunterston Castle is a historic treasure that has stood the test of time for over 900 years. The castle is the home of the lairds of Clan Hunter and has a rich history, intricate architecture, and fascinating legends that make it a must-visit destination for history lovers.

The castle was originally granted to the Hunters, who were of Norman French origin, by King David I of Scotland in the 12th century. The family has lived on the estate ever since, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland. In the Middle Ages, the chief of Clan Hunter was granted the hereditary title of Royal Huntsman, adding to the castle’s prestige and importance.

The castle consists of a tower that dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century and a 17th-century manor house attached to it. The tower was originally built for defensive purposes, but in the 17th century, a house was added to the tower to provide additional accommodation. In the 19th century, a Neoclassical house, Hunterston House, was built to the north of the castle to provide more space for the family.

The castle underwent an extensive restoration in 1926 by Robert Lorimer, which added to its beauty and historical significance. Today, Hunterston Castle is a Category A listed building, meaning it is considered to be of national or international importance.

Between 1974 and 1985, the castle was open to the public daily, but due to new rules and legislation by the nearby nuclear power stations, it was later deemed too much of a security risk to allow public access. After 1985, the castle was only accessible by advance request and became off limits to the public in 1994.

In the 2000s, the castle was open for one day a year as part of the Open Days event, but this was later dropped due to security concerns. Today, the castle is only accessible to Clan Hunter members, but it can still be viewed externally by anyone passing by as it is next to a public right of way and a cycle route.

In conclusion, Hunterston Castle is a beautiful and historic castle that has stood the test of time for over 900 years. It has a rich history, intricate architecture, and fascinating legends that make it a must-visit destination for history lovers. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist visiting Scotland, be sure to stop by and admire this beautiful castle and its rich heritage.