Dean Castle

Formerly the home of the BOYD FAMILY for four hundred years.  The keep was built around 1350 and was constructed as a strong defensive tower. The Palace, built around 1465 was designed as a comfortable residence for a successful noble family. Together they form an important example of a Scottish courtyard castle.

The castle was damaged by fire in 1735 and abandoned as a residence, until it was carefully restored by the 8th Lord Howard de Walden between 1908 and 1946. His son, the 9th Lord Howard de Walden, the last private owner, gifted the Castle and its magnificent collections to the people of Kilmarnock in 1975.

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