DK Travel : Scotland : Culzean Castle

Culzean Castle

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Formerly a rather dull fortified tower house, Culzean (pronounced “Cullane”) was transformed by the architect Robert Adam into a mansion of sumptuous proportions and elegance. The work began in 1777 and lasted almost 20 years, the Kennedy family sparing little expense in the decoration and craftsmanship of their clifftop home. Culzean – a masterpiece in a land full of magnificent castles – was gifted to the nation and fully restored in the 1970s. Its grounds became Scotland’s first public country park in 1969.

Top 10 Highlights

1. Oval Staircase

Nothing short of perfection . Ionic and Corinthian pillars swirl above a strawberry red carpet, lit up by an arched skylight.
2. Armoury

Countless weapons cover the walls in concentrated patterns. The 120 blades forming a star over the fireplace are a fraction of this fearsome arsenal.
3. Saloon

The most beautiful room in the castle, with its bold colours and circle of windows overlooking the sea. Louis XVI chairs sit softly on Adam carpets.
4. Lord Cassillis’ Rooms

Restored to their late 18th-century décor . The vivacious wallpaper is Chinese; the four-poster bed late Chippendale.
5. Eisenhower Apartment

A gift to the US president in gratitude for his support in World War II. Not open to the public, but it can be hired.
6. Picture Room

Formerly the High Hall of the old tower house, this was the first room Adam transformed, and the first to be faithfully restored in 1972 .
7. Country Park

Reckoned to be the most magnificent park in Britain, this coastal swath of woodland, ponds, gardens, beaches and clifftop walks retains the park’s original character.
8. Home Farm Visitor Centre

No ordinary farm, but more of a fortified village within the country park, now transformed into a visitor centre and café.
9. Camellia House

This impressive baronial greenhouse is one of over 40 lesser architectural features found dotted around the grounds. It’s a Gothic home for the collection of camellias.
10. Clifftop and Shoreline Trails

The views to the mountains of Arran are glorious from these vantage points. Two favourite destinations are Swan Pond and Happy Valley. Free guided tours (about 1 hour) depart from the visitor centre, or go it alone.

Practical Information

It’s all too easy to overlook half of the Walled Garden, and so miss the wonderful Victorian Vinery, where period species of dessert grapes are grown under glass. Check out the visitor centre restaurant to see if their tasty venison casserole is on the menu. Maybole (01655) 884455 www.culzeancastle.net Late Mar–Oct: 10am– 5pm daily; Nov–Dec: 10am–4pm Sat & Sun Castle grounds: 9:30am–sunset daily Adm: combined ticket for Castle and Country Park £10, family £25; for Country Park only (including Castle grounds) £5, family £13.50