Dean Castle is situated in the Dean Castle Country Park in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, Scotland. It was the stronghold for the Boyd Family, who were lords of Kilmarnock for over 400 years.
The Castle takes its name from ‘The Dean’ or wooded valley, a common place name in Scotland. However, until about 1700 it was called Kilmarnock Castle. Owned originally by the Boyd family, it has strong historical connections with many people and events famous in Scottish history. Robert the Bruce who gave the Boyds these lands; James III of Scotland whose sister married a Boyd; the Covenanters, some of whom were imprisoned here; Bonnie Prince Charlie, whose rebellion was joined by the 4th Earl of Kilmarnock and Robert Burns who was encouraged to publish his poetry by the Earl of Glencairn who owned the Castle at that time.
*Please note that the castle is undergoing restoration and is currently closed. The castle collections are on display at the Dick Institute while works are ongoing at the castle. The park remains open and you can explore the grounds or chat to a member of staff to find out more about the castle's history and the development plans. The Country Park, visitor centre and cafe will remain open as normal during the castle restoration works.
Bring your own pen.
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