Hunterston Castle

Hunterston Castle

Hunterston Castle with Bluebells

Hunterston Castle old staircase

The castle tower is the oldest section of the building, dating from the 13th century. We do not know the exact year of original construction but it likely replaced an earlier wooden structure.

The tower is a type of construction called a ‘pele tower’ which were very common in this part of Scotland and the North of England. There is no protective moat around the building as it was naturally surrounded by marshland. The marsh was drained in the 1820s by the 25th laird to create arable farmland.

Castle residents would have climbed a ladder from the barrel-vaulted basement if the castle was ever under attack, and could restrict access by closing a trapdoor still visible in the basement ceiling.

The living room of the tower provided an area for undertaking estate business, eating and staying warm in winter, with heat from the large fireplace rising up the narrow stair to the rooms above.

The steps up through what was the main entrance to the tower would have been blocked with a heavy door to provide security. One of the hinges for this is still in place. A simple medieval toilet facility or ‘garderobe’ can be seen in the corner of this room.

Castle Sections

Other household activities such as cooking, laundry and brewing took place in other buildings outside of the pele tower.

The shared family bedroom gives the visitor an idea of the living conditions of the period. The basic garderobe in the alcove would have been similar to that in the living room downstairs.

The attic provides an adaptable space with access through a small door to the parapet where men at arms would defend the building. Visitors to the castle can still walk around this outside area and imagine living in this building so many years ago.

The Baronial Hall on the south side of the tower dates from the 15th century and is a good example of a building extension of the time. The external circular staircase was built at the same time.

Hunterston Castle Great Hall

The Hall has a restored fireplace with the Hunter coat of arms above the mantelpiece. The family’s replica Hunterston Brooch and a copy of our oldest document “The Charter’ are on display here.

Above the Hall is an attic area that has been converted into a Clan meeting room (not currently open to visitors). A plaque shows recipients of the award Order of the Royal Huntsman, which recognises those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Clan Hunter.

Visits to Hunterston Castle are by appointment only. Unlock the secrets of the Castles and its grounds by booking a tour with our knowledgeable professional guide. To book online go to Book a visit. Check out our What’s nearby, Accessibility and Visitor Information pages to get the most out of your trip.