CULZEAN CASTLE

We found Culzean Castle (pronounced: Cul'een) just four miles west of Maybole in South Ayrshire, Scotland. It is situated at the edge of a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Culzean is an impressive castellated mansion house surrounded by a 563-acre park. This castle is a relatively “newer” castle because it was built in the eighteenth century. However it was constructed over an older castle site.

Culzean has a most interesting history. It was built over a network of caves and was the center for smuggling during the eighteenth century. The top floor of the castle was reserved for U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower for his use during his lifetime for services to Britain during World War II. There is an exhibit about him at the castle now. It is also said to be the former home of the Kennedy family until it was given to The National Trust for Scotland in 1945. Culzean has become one of their most visited properties.

The rooms on the inside of the castle are lavishly furnished and decorated. Featured is an impressive oval staircase and an awesome curved arrangement of windows that overlooks the Firth of Clyde. A lovely view of the Isles of Arran and Ailsa Craig can be seen from this wonderful vantage point.

There is an outstanding view of Culzean perched high on the cliff as you drive down the highway. Our digital camera zoomed to pick-up this view as good as possible and we have included it in the slideshow to share with the viewers here.

One bit of advice if you plan to visit this castle or speak of it. Culzean is pronounced ‘Cul-lane’! You will surely mark yourself as a tourist if you use any other pronunciation.

Slide Show (Manual)


Copyright © Castlesights All rights reserved