Dunure Castle, Medieval fortress on coastal cliffs in South Ayrshire, Scotland.
Description
Dunure Castle is a stone fortress built on a rocky outcrop above the Firth of Clyde in southwestern Scotland. The surviving ruins feature thick walls and vaulted chambers that reveal the medieval structure's original construction.
History
The Kennedy family took control of the castle lands in 1357 and built their authority as Earls of Cassilis across southwestern Scotland. The fortress remained important until the 17th century, when the family's power began to fade.
Culture
The location served as a seat of power for the Kennedy family, whose influence shaped southwestern Scotland for centuries. Visitors today can walk through spaces that reflect the family's prominence in the region.
Practical
The ruins sit within Kennedy Park, which offers pathways and basic facilities for visitors exploring the site. Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is uneven and the approach to the cliff edge can be steep.
Did you know?
Beneath the fortress lies a cavern called Browney's Cave, which may have served as a hidden passage to the stronghold. This underground route would have given residents a secret access or escape route if needed.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (South Ayrshire).
Culzean Castle
5.9 km
Electric Brae
2.7 km
Butlin's Ayr
5.7 km
Greenan Castle
6.9 km
Crossraguel Abbey
7.9 km
Maybole Castle
7.6 km
Dunduff Castle
2 km
Alloway Kirk
8.3 km
Baltersan Castle
7.7 km
Thomaston Castle
6.4 km
Maybole, High Street, Town Hall
7.6 km
Maybole Baptist Church
7.5 km
Alloway, Robert Burns Monument
8.3 km
Maybole Collegiate Church
7.7 km
Greenside
7.5 km
New Bridge of Doon
8.2 km
Alloway railway bridge
8.1 km
Culzean Castle, Camellia House
6.1 km
Dunure Harbour
325 m
Culzean Castle Estate, Courtyard Including Castle Walls, Mortar Battery, Dolphin Arch And Coach Ring
5.8 km
Culzean Castle Estate, Ruined Arch And Viaduct
5.9 km
Culzean Castle Estate, Gas Works, Including Gas House, Cottage, Gas Holder, Walls And Gatepiers
5.8 km
Culzean Castle Estate, Fountain Court, Including Fountain, Terrace Walls, Orangery And Shelter
5.9 km
Culzean Castle, Home Farm
5.6 km
Culzean Castle Estate, Battery And Mast House, Including Retaining Wall And Flagstones
6 km
Dunure Castle and dovecot
11 m
Dunure Dovecot
44 m
Culzean Castle, Stables And Clock Tower
5.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes