The Barony of Kersland

The Barony of Kersland is a 15th-century castle ruin that survives as an L-shaped tower now incorporated into a farmhouse at East Kersland. The stone structure stands near the River Garnock in a rural setting.

The castle was built in the 15th century and remained in use until the 18th century, when the Ker family sold their 700-acre estate to William Scot of Bavelaw. This sale ended centuries of family control over the barony.

The dwelling house displays a carved stone from 1604 with the arms of the Ker family, who shaped this land over centuries. This carved mark shows how a family expressed their bond to their property and their power in the region.

The site remains in private ownership and visits require advance permission from the landowners. Views of the ruins and the surrounding landscape are possible from public walking paths in the area.

A water mill once operated on the estate to grind grain for tenants until the end of thirlage, a feudal obligation that bound farmers to use the lord's mill. This mill marks the shift from medieval obligations to independent farming.

Location: North Ayrshire

GPS coordinates: 55.72100,-4.69682

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:26