Dundonald

Dundonald is a special place to visit. At its heart, high on Castle Hill, you’ll find the royal residence of the first Stewart kings and the grand remains of their 14th-century castle. 

Friendly, knowledgeable staff will tell you intriguing stories of the castle and its importance in many of the fascinating moments in Scottish history. There’s a small exhibition, a shop and a café where you can eat in or takeaway.   

Just beyond the castle, join the Smuggler’s Trail, famously trodden by the Loans Smugglers, or wander through ancient woodland past the site of an Iron Age Fort, or the ruins of Old Auchans House, the once grand home of the Earls of Eglinton. 

Every August, Dundonald hosts a hugely popular Highland Games, with an international pipe band competition, Highland Dancing and plenty of children’s rides and stalls.