Rare chance to see old Rowallan Castle

Jul 18 2008 by Stef Lach, Kilmarnock Standard

MEMBERS of the public will be allowed a rare chance to explore stunning old Rowallan Castle as it opens its doors for 10 days.

A series of daily guided summer tours of the castle will take place between Wednesday, July 16, and Friday, July 25.

Set in rolling Ayrshire countryside near Kilmaurs, the extraordinary Renaissance building was home to the Muirs, one of the area’s most influential families for more than 400 years.

By the 17th century the family was renowned for their cultural interests as writers, historians and composers.

The earliest surviving lute music in Scotland was written at Rowallan Castle.

The building itself is equally fascinating, and visitors can see evidence of how it evolved from the 13th to the 18th centuries.

Peter Yeoman of Historic Scotland said: “We are delighted to be able to offer these daily tours of what is one of Ayrshire’s hidden gems.

“Rowallan Castle is an important part of Scotland’s national heritage, as a rare example of a well preserved house of the middle ranking nobility.

“Parties will be shown round by an expert guide who will offer them a host of fascinating insights into the history of the castle and the remarkable people who lived there.”

The castle features at least seven identifiable architectural styles.

Excavations on the site have also revealed evidence of prehistoric settlement and burial. Historic Scotland has just reinstalled a display on the archaeological finds made during the excavation, with objects on loan from East Ayrshire Council.

Opening hours on the open days will be 10am to noon and 2pm to 4pm, last entry at 3.30pm. Entry costs £3.70 for an adult, £1.85 for a child and £3 for concessions.