The Shiel: Forgotten Past

Driving

A collection of local sights which explore the Shiel's neolithic, medieval and early-modern past

This tour is 55 miles long, please allow at least 1 hour 25 minutes to complete it, excluding the time taken to enjoy the destinations along the way.

Plunge into the past with this tour of the sites which make up centuries of the Shiel’s fascinating history. Places of ancient worship dating back to the 1100s are revealed as centres of artistic and architectural wonder, such as the magnificent monument Skelmorlie Aisle which features painting by an artist who also worked on Edinburgh Castle. A significantly more modern example of painting is the vibrantly-restored Kelburn Country Estate, with its distinctive graffitied covered Castle uniting classic and modern art. Kilwinning Abbey is a stunning structure which also dates from the 12th century, steeped in myths of murderous abbots and buried treasure. Pre-medieval historians will, meanwhile, find much to intrigue them at the Haylie Chambered Tomb in which human remains and artefacts were found that dated back to 3000BC. The scale and opulence of the fabulous 18th-century Culzean Castle and Country Park offers something enjoyable for all the family - from forest follies to an authentic armoury, play-parks, and wildlife walks, this is a fun-packed estate with history galore.

What you'll see

Hunterston Castle - West Kilbride

History & Heritage

We welcome guests to visit the stunning Hunterston Castle, which is one in a chain of medieval of castles, built back in the 15th/16th century.

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Fairlie Castle - North Ayrshire

History & Heritage

Fairlie Castle is a restored 16th century oblong castle, which overlooks the glen of Fairlie

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Kelburn Country Estate - North Ayrshire

Outdoor Activities

Kelburn Castle and Estate offers stunning walks, imaginative playtime, and creative activities.

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Haylie Chambered Tomb - Largs

History & Heritage

These neolithic tombs were discovered by James Wilson of Haylie in 1772, and can be found in Largs' Douglas Park

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Skelmorlie Aisle - Ayrshire

History & Heritage

The Skelmorlie Aisle of Largs Old Kirk is the remains of a church in the town of Largs, North Ayrshire.

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Kilbirnie Auld Kirk - North Ayrshire

History & Heritage

Kilbirnie Auld Kirk is a Church of Scotland congregation in North Ayrshire, Scotland. The building dates back to the 15th century.

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Kilwinning Abbey - North Ayrshire

History & Heritage

The Abbey was founded sometime between 1162 and 1188 with monks coming from Kelso in the Scottish Borders. Its ruins sit in the centre of the town.

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