Dean Castle

On the outskirts of Kilmarnock, Dean Castle is a medieval square keep with an interesting collection of armour including one of William Wallace's swords. For musical instrument enthusiasts, there is an important collection of early instruments.

Dunaskin Open Air Museum

Early in the 21st Century, rural Ayrshire seems an unlikely place to have a significant place in industrial archaeology. However, at the beginning of the industrial revolution, the presence of coal, limestone and iron-ore lead to the production of pig-iron in the area. The Dunaskin Open Air Museum reveals some of the story.

The Scottish Maritime Museum at Irvine

This is one of three sites where the museum is located. Scotland's past is closely connected to the sea; the museum is concerned with this aspect of our heritage.