culzean castle

maybole, ayrshire

There’s big and there’s special and then there’s just right out there on another scale - and that’s Culzean Castle and Country Park.

One of Scotland’s most famous stately homes, Culzean is a lavish, larger-than-life beauty that is both a grand day out and a gardener’s paradise.

From the moment you pull off the main drag and head down the long, winding road into the estate it’s obvious that David Kennedy, the 10th Earl of Cassillis, succeeded in his aim of impressing with his wealth and status.

To be honest, the location itself, perched on the Ayrshire cliffs near Maybole, would do that.

But then there’s the magnificent castle which was designed by Robert Adam in the 18th Century.

It’s packed to the rafters with treasures and history, including the rooms stayed in by President Eisenhower that are now part of a swish hotel.

The castle re-opens on March 28 but you needn’t set a foot inside to be impressed by Culzean.

That can be taken care of just by wandering round the massive beech and conifer-planted parkland.

The Swan Pond is just one stunning feature but there is so, so much more, including getting down to the great beaches.

Dogs are welcome outwith the house and as well as being good disabled parking, manual wheelchair and motorised scooters can be booked in advance. There are several catering options, too. Culzean Castle, Maybole KA19 8LE 01655 884455