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The southern Ayrshire community lies along the River Garnock in southwestern Scotland. Celtic Christians, known as Culdees, spread the faith throughout the region in the 6th century. St. Winin established a church here around 715 AD. Richard de Morville constructed the Tironensian Benedictine Abbey in 1162. The masons responsible for building the structure simultaneously formed the Freemasons organization. The first lodge appeared about the same time as the Abbey. Monks constructed the first flourmill here in the 1300s. Farming and textiles supported the local economy. The local textile industry traditionally produced woollen cloth, gauze, muslin and shawls.
The Knights Templar held approximately 200 properties in Kilwinning during the 1300s. Some believe Kilwinning possibly has hidden historical relics because of the heavy presence of the Knights during this time. The town became an archery centre during the Middle Ages. Kilwinning held the first Papingo Shoot in 1483, a tradition that continues today. The Earl of Eglinton constructed a castle near Kilwinning in the latter 1700s. Besides serving as a personal residence, the palace regularly welcomed royalty and military guests that included Napoleon. The Earl held medieval tournaments for the pleasure of thousands. His elaborate expenditures eventually cost him his properties.
Beloved Scottish poet, Robert William Service lived in Kilwinning with his grandfather from the time he was five years old. Service reportedly created his first poem at the age of six. By 1840, Kilwinning had a railway service, which brought many to the community seeking employment. Though the textile industry gradually declined, coal mining and the steel industry provided occupation opportunities.
Activities and Attractions
The landscape around the River Garnock features wildflower decorated meadows and wooded areas that invite visitors to explore. These areas also teem with native wildlife and the chance to get a little closer to nature. The river meanders its way through desolate territory and eventually meets the sea. Visitors often journey along the river to the Dalgarven Mill. The structure is one of the largest and oldest in the country. See the massive paddle wheel that powers the mill and investigate the machinery that ground grain into flour for centuries. The old grainery now houses the Country Museum. The three-story building features exhibits displaying typical rural life during Victorian times.
See a wide selection of clothing worn by brides, babies and other family members for everyday work and special occasions. Explore the arrays of gadgets that once constituted modern household appliances. View everything from fine china to food containers. Facility collections also include doll and toy exhibits along with recreational equipment of the day. Get a glimpse of the hand tools and horse drawn implements that gave way to engine powered tractors. Looms, spinning wheels and an antique printing press represent some types of Victorian industrial equipment. Explore a recreation of a typical mill owner’s home with period decorations and furnishings.
The Abbey ruins lie next to the church in the middle of town. Walking around the remnants, visitors see the elaborate stonework involved in making the original structure. The existing features include intricately designed arches that serve as doorways and windows. Ancient mason symbols remain visible on varied stones of the abbey. An illustrated description explains the location and purpose of buildings that once stood in the complex. Constructed in the early 1800s, the Abbey Clock Tower represents the original structure. The building features a heritage centre and the chance to climb 143 stairs for amazing views over the community. The tower is also historically the site where archers shot the papingo, a wooden pigeon, off the top of the building.
South of Kilwinning lays the Elginton Castle estate and park. The park consists of over 900 acres (400 hectares) of open fields, woodlands and riverbanks. Paved paths travel through the location in a number of configurations. On any given day, cyclists and walkers spend time in the park, along with horseback riders. The main feature of the destination includes the remains of the Eglinton Castle. The main entrance wall and twin towers still stand, along with traces of walls and former foundations. A freestanding tower stands nearby. The site also features a restored icehouse and stables.
Places To Stay and Dining
Unique lodging options in Kilwinning include renovated farmhouses serving as bed and breakfast inns. Besides sleeping quarters, facilities additionally offer spacious living areas. Guests may either prepare their own meals or dine in the main facility restaurant.
The Montgreenan House restaurant offers guests a fine dining experience. House specialties on the traditional Scottish menu include baked haggis stuffed peppers topped with a creamy wine sauce. Other main dishes include roasted duck, prepared with a ginger and honey sauce.
Accommodation in Kilwinning
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