Dean Castle **
Region: Ayrshire & Arran
© Copyright Billy McCrorie and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence
Description:
Dean Castle was the home and stronghold of the Boyd Family for over 400 years.
The Boyds, in the space of only a few generations, would be made Knights, Lords and ultimately hold the Regency of Scotland, only to lose their grip on power under accusations of treason before rising again to become the Earls of Kilmarnock.
Their story is one of battles, plots, feuds, kings and politics and includes many figures of historical note – from William Wallace and Robert the Bruce to Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie and you will find out more about their story as you wander in and around the Castle.
After the defeat and execution of William Wallace in 1305, Sir Robert Boyd became one of the first supporters of Robert the Bruce. He distinguished himself at the Battle of Bannockburn in directing the right wing of the Scots army. Bruce rewarded Boyd with lands in West Kilbride (Portencross) and Kilmarnock. These lands were probably confiscated from the Balliol family, from whom Bruce took power.
Collection(s):
Armour and Weapons from the 1200s up to the 1700s