Dundonald Castle
Dundonald Castle near Troon in Ayrshire is a dramatically sited medieval castle on a prominent volcanic hilltop in the care of Historic Environment Scotland, with panoramic views extending from Arran to the Galloway hills. The site has been fortified since at least the Iron Age and the present tower house was built in the 1370s by Robert II of Scotland, the first Stewart king, as one of his principal residences. Robert II and his successor Robert III both died at Dundonald, giving the castle royal dynastic significance in the history of the Stewart dynasty. The visitor centre interprets the site's long history and the great tower's impressive scale demonstrates both the defensive capability and domestic comfort expected of a royal residence.