Ayrshire's top castles: History and beautiful scenery

With just three weekends until the schools go back, we thought it was time to have a look at Ayrshire's top 10 castles.

1. Culzean

Situated near Maybole, and dating back to 1777, it boasts some wonderful gardens, spectacular views and a whole load of Scottish history within its walls. Once the home of the Marquess of Ailsa, the chief of Clan Kennedy, it is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. A favourite of former US President Dwight Eisenhower, who stayed there on numerous occasions, it also has its spooky side. It is rumoured to be haunted by at least seven ghosts. To cap it all, the cult horror classic The Wicker Man was filmed there some 50 years ago.

2. Brodick Castle

The former seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, this beautiful castle on the isle of Arran has some magnificent grounds. There had been a fortress on the site since the 5th century and it later came under the control of the Vikings. The castle was rebuilt by the Earl of Arran in 1510. The Castle and gardens were acquired by the National Trust for Scotland from the Lady Jean Fforde in 1958.

3. Dean Castle

Kilmarnock's 14th century Castle and 200 acre lands were the stronghold for the Boyd family, who were rewarded by Robert the Bruce for their support. Now run by East Ayrshire Council it is free to access and has had extensive renovation work in the lkast few years. TV fans will recognise it as Beaufort Castle, as seen in the hit show Outlander.

4. Ardrossan Castle

Sitting atop Castle Hill in Ardrossan, with fantastic views of Arran and the Clyde, the building is a ruin now. Well looked after by the Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society, it dates back to around 1140. It was partly destroyed in reprisal after William Wallace was said to have slaughtered an English garrison there. The vaults are still known as Wallace's Larder.  The castle remained until the 17th century when Oliver Cromwell ordered its destruction with the stones removed to build Ayr Citadel. Locals say the castle is still haunted by the ghost of Wallace.

5.  Dundonald Castle

The original fortified tower house was built for Robert II  in 1371 on his accession to the throne of Scotland and became a royal residence. It is believed that two earlier fortresses stood on the site, which lies between Troon and Irvine. There is a visitor centre at the foot of the hill, which includes a cafe, souvenir shop and exhibition - and it hosts the Dundonald Highland Games each year.

6. Portencross Castle

A hidden gem on the North Ayrshire coast, situated three miles from West Kilbride, the castle dates back to the mid 14th century. It remained in use until a great storm in 1739 tore the roof off. Situated in one of the most picturesque locations on the coast, the castle was designed a scheduled listed monument in 1955.

7. Dunure Castle

Just five miles south of Ayr, the ruined castle lies on a rocky promontory on the Carrick coast, overlooking the small harbour of Dunure. Originally built in the 13th century, the current remains date to the 14th and 15th centuries. It was in the hands of the Kennedy's of Carrick for generations. There are also said to be secret tunnels which connect Dunure Castle to Greenan Castle further north.

8. Greenan Castle

This dramatic ruin lies at the top of a sea cliff and dates back to the 14th century. The lands of Greenan were forfeited by John, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles in 1476 for treason against James III. In 1493 James IV granted the Lands of Greenan to William Douglas, son of Archibald, Earl of Angus. It fell out of use after 1776.

9. Kelburn Castle

Situated between Largs and Fairlie, Kelburn is the seat of Lord Glasgow, who a few decades back opened it up at Kelburn Country Park. It's a great spot for families, with amazing walks, waterfalls and fun attractions an an annual music festival. Built in the 13th century, it overlooked the Battle of Largs took place in 1263, when the Scots defeated the Vikings.

10. Loch Doon Castle

Loch Doon Castle was originally located on an island within the loch itself. In the hands of the Earls of Carrick for many years, it dates back to the 13th century. The caslte was destroyed by King James V in the 16th century in a bid to reduce the power of the Lords of Galloway. Amazingly, the ruin was dismantled and rebuilt on the side of the loch after the water level was raised in the 1930s for a hydro-electric scheme.

Have we missed your favourite Ayrshire castle off the list? Let us know in the comments.