The castle is currently closed, but the grounds of this site are open and free to visit. The visitor centre will reopen on Mon 26 Apr (details tbc). The castle will reopen on Fri 30 Apr (details tbc). Find out more about our COVID response.
Sitting on a prominent hilltop in Dundonald village, Dundonald Castle commands fine views over the Firth of Clyde. The castle was built on the site of earlier castles belonging to the High Stewards of Scotland and can be regarded as the cradle of the Stewart Dynasty.
Explore the high-vaulted halls and gloomy dungeons of this splendid stronghold, perched on a hill above the village. The main tower was built in the 1370s by King Robert II to mark his succession to the throne. Its heritage is explored in the visitor centre. The castle visitor's centre includes an exhibition illustrating the history of the site and a display of some of the artefacts found during archaeological excavations on the hill. There is also a souvenir shop and a small cafeteria.
Although pets are welcome, they are unfortunately not allowed inside the Visitor Centre for hygiene reasons.
There are scenic walks through the woods on the hillside to the west of the village within the vicinity of the castle. Guided tours for group parties can be arranged provided prior notice is given. We also have volunteer tour guides most days.
There is Level Access for the Visitor Centre only, and those wishing to visit the castle, who have limited mobility, would perhaps find it difficult to climb the hill to the castle. Also, inside the castle the top floors are only accessible via stairs.
Very occasionally the property has to close at short notice due to adverse weather conditions or other reasons out with our control. Please check the Historic Scotland closures page for any unexpected site closures https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/check-for-closures/. You can also follow closure tweets from @welovehistory using #hsclosure. Alternatively please call the site before setting off to check they are open.
Road
From Glasgow and central Scotland, follow the M77 all the way to Kilmarnock and pick up the tourist board signs. With the M77 Dundonald is around thirty minutes from the Glasgow city centre.
Transport
By air and sea:
From the airport or the ferry terminal drive towards Irvine (A78) and follow the tourist signs for Dundonald Castle.
By bus:
Stagecoach buses from Ayr, Prestwick, Troon, Irvine, and Kilmarnock, (nos 24, 10, & 21) all stop nearby.
