|
The old community developed toward the western Ayrshire coast in the southwestern portion of the country. Numerous structures, tools and weapons indicate Bronze Age people first established settlements here. Coins and jewellery suggest the Romans passed through the territory. The Loccurt family acquired the land from Richard de Morville in 1170. The town was eventually named for Stephen Loccurt. The Loccurts constructed the Kerelaw Castle in 1191. Later, Stevenston divided the township into two districts, ruled by the Campbells and the Cunninghames. James IV appointed the Lord of Eglinton his representative over North Ayrshire in 1488.
The appointment culminated in constant feuds between the Lord, the Campbell and Cunninghame families. Eglinton attacked, robbed and burned Kerelaw Castle within the year. In retaliation, the Cunninghame family burned the Eglinton Castle in 1528. Coal mining began in 1680 and Cunninghame constructed a harbour to export the product to Ireland. Women and children carried the coal out of the mine, horse drawn wagons then transported the coal to the port. John Hamilton, grandfather of famed American politician Alexander Hamilton, bought the castle in 1685. He later constructed the Grange manor house and sold the castle to the Cunninghames.
Salt mining also began. During the 1760s, a local upper class woman by the name of Lesley Baillie attracted the attention of poet Robert Burns and was the subject of some of his poems. A well-respected woman, the residents of Stevenston erected an obelisk in Baillie’s honour in 1778. By 1772, the harbour underwent improvements and Cunninghame constructed a canal from the mines to the port. Beginning in 1845 and spanning over 25 years, Stevenston lost over 600 residents. The community believed an Asian form of cholera was responsible for the illnesses. However, at this time, Stevenston lacked sanitary conditions.
Stevenston developed an ironworks factory in 1845, which brought many to the community attempting to escape from the ravages of the potato famine. Before the end of the decade, the industry had five blast furnaces. The community established a sanitation committee in 1868, which explored methods of sewage disposal and obtaining clean water supplies. The community did not obtain a piped water supply until 1885. Stevenston acquired burgh status in 1952.
Activities and Attractions
Locals call Stevenston, Ardrossen and Saltcoats the Threetowners. Trade and export tied the communities together for centuries. Southwest of town lies Saltcoats, the harbour location used for exporting Stevenston coal and salt. A paved promenade along the waterfront features cafes, shops and an amusement park. Beaches provide a picturesque environment for relaxing in the sun or exploring the coast on foot. Visitors take cruises along the coast, join fishing charters or engage in any number of popular water sports. The cobblestone village centre features a collection of buildings ranging in age from medieval times to the present.
Travel further north up the coast and visit Ardrossan. High on a hill overlooking the impressive harbour lays the remains of the Ardrossan Castle. Visitors regularly scale the site and explore the ruins. From the Ardrossan marina, guests frequently board the ferry that travels to Isle of Arran. Archaeological buffs enjoy exploring the ancient cairns, forts and stone circles at various locations on the island. Overlooking the harbour stands the Brodick Castle. Construction began on the site in the 1100s and resident lords continued improvements for 400 years. The interior features period rooms representing the 1300s through Victorian times.
The Arran Brewery welcomes guests for guided tours of the facility. Informative walks explain and show guests the processes involved in beer making. The island distillery also welcomes guests interested in viewing the processes of making Scotch whiskey. Tens of thousands visit the facility annually, anxious to learn how the famous whiskey begins with grain and transforms into Scotch. A visitor’s centre offers a restaurant and the distillery shop. The Heritage Museum also attracts many visitors. The extensive site tells the history of the area through collections of artefacts strategically placed in period themed environments and rooms.
Places To Stay and Dining
Stevenston area lodging choices include en suite log cabins featuring outdoor Jacuzzis. The cabins lie on private farm properties. Property owners offer the choice between prepared meals at the farm restaurant and self-catering. The venue typically prepares breakfast and dinner meals, requiring guests make their own arrangements for lunch.
The Braidswood restaurant offers meals prepared with freshly caught fish and hunted game birds. Try smoked salmon with a poached egg, topped with creamy hollandaise. Have roasted quail on black pudding with beet greens and a pine nut salad.
Accommodation in Stevenston
Show Bed & Breakfasts in Stevenston
Show Hotels in Stevenston
Show Cottages in Stevenston
Show Caravan Parks & Camping Sites in Stevenston
| 
