Book Your Culzean Castle Tickets For A Fun Family Day Out

Visit Culzean Castle to enjoy a day out with beautiful gardens, woods, beaches, woodland trails, and playgrounds. To top it off, you get to see the monumental cliff-top castle within Culzean Castle Country Park. This is the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa, the Kennedy Clan, and is currently owned by the National Trust for Scotland. This wildlife-rich 260 ha (642.5 acres) estate is something you and your family will love exploring. Book your Culzean Castle Country Park tickets now.

Interesting Facts About Culzean Castle

Can you stay at Culzean Castle?

Culzean Castle is on the cliff edge of the Ayrshire coast in Maybole. If you look down below, you will find the choppy waters of the Firth of Clyde. The castle has been kept in wonderful condition for more than 600 years. Both Culzean Castle and the Country Park were handed over to the National Trust for Scotland in 1945 by the 4th Marquess of Ailsa.

There are many castles in Scotland in which you can stay the night, and Culzean Castle is one of them. The maximum capacity of the venue is 12 and there are six double bedrooms. The facilities are superbly furnished and the rooms are extremely comfortable.

Which architect designed Culzean Castle in Ayrshire?

Culzean Castle in Maybole, Ayrshire was designed by Robert Adam. He converted a more basic structure into a fine country house for the seat of the earldom.

How old is Culzean Castle?

Originally belonging to an ancient Scottish family descended from Robert the Bruce, the Kennedys, there was only a stone tower house here in the 16th century. Various Kennedys have made their mark on the castle. Only in the 1970s, did the grand castle start showing. David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis, commissioned Robert Adam, a Scottish architect, to build a castle worthy of the family's status and wealth. The construction of the castle was completed in 1972.

Who owns Culzean Castle?

Culzean Castle is now owned by the National Trust For Scotland. It was handed over to the organisation by the 4th Marquess of Ailsa.

Who lives at Culzean Castle?

Culzean Castle was the home of the Marquess of Ailsa, the chief of Clan Kennedy. However, in 1945, the family gave the castle and the grounds to the National Trust for Scotland with the caveat that the apartment at the top of the castle was given to General of the US Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower. This was done to recognise his role in the Second World War as Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe.

Once the playground of David Kennedy, the castle and its gardens are now open to visitors. There are other holiday houses available on the grounds of the Country Park.

Why was Culzean Castle built?

It was built as an L-plan castle by order of the 10th Earl of Cassilis as a status symbol for the Kennedys.

How long do you need to spend at Culzean Castle?

You should spend the day at Culzean Castle to bask in all its glory and rich history.

What are the key features of the castle?

If you love walking, enjoy beautiful gardens, are keen on the history of majestic architecture, or just want a small picnic for yourself, then Culzean Castle and Country Park are perfect for you.

You can explore the sea caves beneath the castle, which are open for tours throughout the summer. It is fun to roam the beautiful grounds and the pretty gardens, animal parks, incredible coastline, beaches, woodland, and the mesmerising swan pond. You can visit the swan pond on a sunny day, buy some tasty ice cream at the shop and sit beside the lake. There is also a walled garden to explore. Visit the deer garden in the compound for some exquisite views of the castle.

Is Carisbrooke Castle a National Trust property?

Carisbrooke Castle is now under the control of English Heritage.

What is the castle used for today?

Culzean Castle is now exclusively used as a tourist attraction.

What age is Culzean Castle suitable for?

A day out in Culzean Castle is suitable for all ages. Check for entry restrictions before visiting.

What's the best time to visit?

The castle is open for visitors all year round. There will be something new to experience with the change of each season.

Directions, Venue Info, And Attendee FAQs

Where is Culzean Castle?

The address is Culzean Castle, Maybole, KA19 8LE, South Ayrshire, Scotland.

How do I get to Culzean Castle?

If you are travelling by car, take the M6 from London.

You can also choose to visit via train. The first train from London Euston Station is Avanti West Coast to Glasgow Central Station. Take the second train, ScotRail, to Ayr. Once in Ayr, take a bus from Smith Street to Glenside. It is a 20-minute walk from there to the castle.

Where can I park at Culzean Castle?

There are plenty of car parks near the castle and Swan Pond to choose from. Parking is free for members of the National Trust.

Do you need to book Culzean Castle?

Booking is not required, however, it is advised to book your tickets before visiting to avoid any issues.

How much is it to get into Culzean Castle?

Ticket prices start at £18.50.

Where are the toilets at the castle?

There are plenty of public toilets available.

Is Culzean Castle accessible?

There is accessible parking, hearing loops, and a lift for everyone to use.

Is there a gift shop at the castle?

Yes, there are gift shops available in the castle area.

What are Culzean Castle's opening times?

The castle and gardens are open from 10:30 am-4:30 pm from Thursday-Monday.

Where can I eat nearby?

There are many fine restaurants near the castle including Old Stables Coffee House, Souter's Inn Restaurant, and Dowhill.