A short distance south of Ayr, Blairquhan is one such castle. During the 3-mile approach to the castle, you are transported back into time. As you pass over a William Burn bridge and see the River Girvan, the beauty will take your breath away. Some 2-miles down the approach, the castle comes into sight. Its magnificence will make you shiver in awe. As one would expect, the accommodations that are offered are spectacular. There are 8 cottages, some dating back as far as the 1500’s and several well-appointed castle bedrooms that can be booked. As well, Blairquhan offers a bed and breakfast option for parties of 8 or more. You can wander the estate to your heart’s content and lose yourself to the pastoral beauty. A lazy day of fishing can also be arranged if you are so inclined. The prices are very reasonable and the accommodations are modernized and quiet elegant. Meals are optional and, considering what you get, well priced. As well, Blairquhan offers a bed and breakfast option for parties of 8 or more.

Constructed in the 16th century, the Tower of Carnell and the newer mansion house are located between Ayr and Kilmarnock. Renowned architect William Burn extended Carnell to its present glory in the 1840’s although the original tower house can still be seen. This castle not only has large, well-appointed rooms available but there are also buildings on the vast estate that they let for longer terms. This castle is a storybook setting with the manicured lawns and the beautiful gardens. If you are getting married, you may want to consider booking this venue. Be warned however, weddings at Carnell are an exclusive event as there are only 5 allowed per year.

Set on an 85-acre estate, the 14th century Sundrum Castle was built for the Sheriff of Ayr. It provides a different experience for a vacation. Sundrum Castle has the distinction of being one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland. A private residence that has been refurbished, it can be rented for a minimum of one month and longer. Imagine living in a castle, sleeping behind 12-foot thick walls, drinking your morning coffee in the Great Hall taking in the beauty of the scenery. The experience would definitely create incredible memories that would be with you forever.

Step into history and book a castle vacation for your next getaway!