Ayrshire

The history, of course, has not always been peaceful but it has been the source of great interest and great significance going back beyond the turbulent relationship with neighbouring England through the dark ages and Roman times.

Like many parts of the west coast Scotland, the county in fact has a far older history, going back over 10,000 years when the first settlers started farming in the area and their ancient hill forts and standing stones are still very much in evidence today both on the mainland and across the western isles for those who wish to find them.

Famous names

Ayrshire is home to 14 clans and over 40 castles. The castles of Ayrshire and their grounds were acquired by clans that supported Scottish Kings in battle, the braver in battle, the greater the reward. The Ayrshire clans include Boyd, Boyle, Bruce, Campbell, Cathcart, Craufurd, Cunningham, Hamilton, Hunter, Kennedy, Lockhart, Montgomery, Mure and Wallace.

Although not subject to the same land clearances as the highlands, many inhabitants moved out from this part of Scotland to Ireland and the colonies, particularly North America and Australia and spread those names far and wide.
Glenapp is an excellent base from which to explore the historical sites both on mainland Ayrshire and out in the islands.