Sunday 12 June 2011

Kelburn Castle, Largs

One of my favourite places to take kids to (as an excuse - I LOVE this place!) is Kelburn Castle and the surrounding estate.  Huge bonus for not being far from where we live, another huge bonus for being really cool and not very expensive.

We're planning a trip there soon, I've been a little pre-occupied with my own estate of recent weeks so we have nowhere new to write about as yet, so I thought I'd inspire myself by remembering to plan a trip soon!


The castle, dates back to the 13th century, and is still lived in by the present Earl and his family.  It hosts exotic gardens, famous trees and many historical features. There's also the Kelburn Glen with its waterfalls and deep gorges, and beautiful woodlands with great views over the islands of the Firth of Clyde.
There is HEAPS to do as facilities include a Pony Trekking & Riding School, Indoor Playbarn, Pet's Corner, Adventure Course, Gift Shop with cafe, and Ranger Service Events.

It is common knowledge that I HATE SOFT PLAY places, but Kelburn's Playbarn is pretty darn good.  It's cheap as chips, small and friendly.  A visit also can't be made without appreciating the amazing Graffitti Project where Kelburn brought together four of the world's leading graffiti artists from Brazil and created a burst of colour, covering the walls and turrets of the south side of Kelburn Castle.  It's fantastic!

Then there's the Annual Garden Party, which I'm afraid due to the appearance of certain toddler I have yet to take part in. However this year it's on the 2/3 July and I fully intend to make it this year!

In the meantime, I'll post some photos up when I manage to drag my muddy arse away from the garden for long enough to treat Baby Wild to an afternoon out!

Logistics / 10

baby friendly            10
toddler friendly         100
toilets/changing         10
accessibilty               10
car parking              free & plentiful
cost                         Adults £7.50, Child/Conc £5.00, Families £25
(Family day ticket entitles entry for 2 adults and up to 3 children).