Fairlie Castle
6 minute walk from Fairlie station · Glasgow and West Central
Fairlie Castle is a restored oblong tower castle located in North Ayrshire, Scotland. Built by the Fairlies of that Ilk, this protected scheduled monument stands on a natural knoll above the picturesque Fairlie Glen. It survives in a good state of preservation despite being roofless.
The site is significant for its long history, with the Fairlie family holding these lands since the fourteenth century. Visitors can see striking structural features, including four storeys, vaulted cellars, and defensive gun ports. The castle walls are 1.6 meters thick and feature roundels at every corner.
While exploring, you can observe the old paving of a nearby causeway and enjoy views of the steep, wooded glen. The ruins include notable interior details like window seats, fireplaces, and a first-floor hall. It is a beautiful example of a typical tower castle situated in a defensible, natural setting.
Visitor information
- Place type
- Castle
- Good for
- Architecture, Castles, Military history, Scenic viewpoints
- Characteristics
- Hilltop, Ruin, Scheduled Monument, Woodland
- Admission
- Free
- Region
- Glasgow and West Central
Stations within walking distance
- Fairlie station — 6 min walk, 0.5 km