A Unique Ayrshire Welcome

At Dundonald Castle & Visitor Centre, you can be sure of a warm and friendly welcome.

Open all year, it’s busy with visitors from all over the world, wanting to know more about Scotland’s dramatic past. You can buy a ticket at the Visitor Centre, although pre-booking is recommended, and be taken on a tour of the castle by one of our enthusiastic volunteer tour guides. Their knowledge of Dundonald’s special place in history is amazing, and tours cater to all ages and interests.

Dundonald Castle (not just a ruin!)

The surviving fabric of Dundonald Castle dates mostly from the third phase of building. This was carried out in the late 14th century, on the instructions of King Robert II, the first of the Stewart monarchs.

With its steep slopes and commanding views of the surrounding countryside, Castle Hill is a well-defended place, which has attracted settlers from early times. Several neighbouring hills have also been settled in the distant past; remains of forts have been found on Kemp Law and Wardlaw Hill.

Archaeological investigations on Castle Hill have so far discovered over 3500 years of history across 8 major phases of occupation.

Visitor Centre Cafe

Within our Visitor Centre, is our small and cosy café with indoor seating for around twenty, complimented by our (often) sunny outdoor seating area for offering unrivaled views of the castle. No passing traffic, instead just enjoy the peaceful surroundings; there really isn’t anywhere else in the county that can boast of such a location.

Our centre is not just for castle visitors though. Why not join us after an invigorating walk (or a gentle stroll) along the historic Smugglers’ Trail that runs from Troon’s South Beach, through the ancient woodlands of Fullarton and Dundonald all the way to the castle? An extensive choice of ‘Italian Aroma’ coffee awaits, along with a range of teas and herbal teas. Soya and oat milk are available as a dairy alternatives.

We try our best to cater for dietary needs, however, please get in touch with us before your visit and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Dogs

Dogs are very welcome and can be taken inside the castle and visitor centre, as long as they’re on a lead and on their best behavior.

Admission Prices

Family (2 Adults and up to 3 Children) £20

Adults £9

Concession £8

Children 5-16 £6

Under 5’s go free

We also accept Historic Scotland memberships and passes

Book Here

How to Get Here:

If you are travelling via car, our address is Dundonald Castle Visitor Centre, Winehouse Yett, Dundonald, KA2 9HD

Address: Dundonald Castle, Winehouse Yett, Dundonald, Kilmarnock KA2 9HD, Scotland.

Distances from Major International Airports

Glasgow International Airport (GLA)

  • Distance: Approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) to the northeast of Dundonald Castle.
  • Travel Time: About 40-50 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

  • Distance: Approximately 70 miles (113 kilometres) to the northeast of Dundonald Castle.
  • Travel Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions

Prestwick Airport (PIK)

  • Distance: Approximately 7 miles (11 kilometres) to the southwest of Dundonald Castle.
  • Travel Time: About 15-20 minutes by car

    Transportation Options

    • Car: The most convenient way to reach Dundonald Castle is by car. The roads connecting these airports to Dundonald are well-maintained, and car rentals are available at all major airports
    • Public Transport:
      • From Glasgow Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Glasgow Central Station, then a train to Troon or Irvine, followed by a local bus or taxi to Dundonald
      • From Edinburgh Airport, take a tram or bus to Edinburgh Waverley Station, then a train to Glasgow Central, and follow the same route as from Glasgow
      • From Prestwick Airport, there are direct bus and taxi services available

    If you are travelling via public transport you can use this handy direction tool below: