Then, last Sunday Easter SundayI was in a small adventure with a friend and her mini explorer in Dean Castle Country Park in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire. Seriously, if you are ever in the area and look for a brilliant day, visit this place. This park of more than 200 acres has something for everyone, believe me.
The highlight for me? Backing in time in the recently made Castle Dean of the fourteenth century. You can feel the story that oozes from the stones. It was the ancestral pad of the Boyd family for more than 400 years (yes, it was originally called Killmarnock Castle). Inside, they have these incredible collections: Think of the European weapons and armor of the old old school, in addition to a fascinating stash of early musical instruments. Total history geek moment. (The Boyd family, which was Lords of Kilmarnock, played an important role in Scottish history after Robert The Bruce granted these lands in 1316. His influence covered centuries, connecting them with events that involve James III, the Covenantes and even Bonnie Prince Charlie).
We took a respite at the Treehouse Café at the Visitors Center, lovely place with a view to the park on the park. The boy had strawberry ice cream, who quickly got tired of eating very fast. I guess I was not much ice cream, just the idea of always having a gift when visiting a place.
It is an ideal location to satisfy your craving for caffeine and talk in the conversation. In addition, it is open every day, so you can always enter.
We also had a walk through the center of rural life, which was surprisingly interesting, all about sustainable life and that. Then we arrive at the forest walks, so quiet and a great opportunity to stretch our legs. And, of course, the little one was in his element in the adventure playground, burning all that energy for children. (The things to do with Kilmarnock children definitely include this recess court!)
Dean Castle: Free admission and daily tours
Dean Castle, right in the heart of the park, is free to enter. It is open every day (we were there one Sunday; the times are from 10 am to 4 pm, last entry at 3:30 pm), and can even join a free tour of the castle. (Castle collections include a wide range of European weapons and armor, which offers a fascinating look at the historical weapons. The collection of early musical instruments is also extensive and quite unique for a castle of this size).
This place has some serious stories to tell. The Boyd family got the land in 1316. It is linked to some big names in Scottish history: Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie and even Robert Burns. He is now attended by East Ayrshire Leisure, and have done a work creak with the recent renovations. Ah, and get this: there is a local legend on the head of the fourth Count of Kilmarnock that remains in one of the towers. Spooky. (The history of the Boyd family is deeply intertwined with Kilmarnock and Ayrshire).
It is also important to keep in mind that the park offers accessibility for wheelchairs, despite some limitations in the castle. There are many parking spaces and a small gift store. Honestly, Dean Castle Country Park is an excellent option for one day in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire. I enjoy visiting castles. This is not one of my favorites, nor is it among my first three; at the moment, Dumbarton Castle Stay at the top of my list.
Here is a summary for 11 fun and interesting activities to do in Deans Castle
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