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| This Grade A- listed Ayrshire tower house enjoys a location of rare drama, perched on a rocky promontory, with an undulating grassy area on one side, the old harbour on the other, and stunning views across the sea. |  Portencross Castle
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Web: www.portencrosscastle.org.uk [http://www.portencrosscastle.org.uk]
The lands on which the property stands were taken away from Godfrey de Ros and given to a loyal follower, Robert Boyd, in 1315 by Robert I, also known as Robert the Bruce. It is believed that Portencross was used on several occasions by both Robert II and Robert III and a number of Royal Charters were issued from the property making this a site of historic interest for Scots.
The four-storey tower house was built in the mid to late-14th century, with a wing added some years later. In the mid 1700s to early 1800s, the castle was given over to local fishermen who ripped out much of the interior, causing subsequent decay, which has never fully been arrested. In 1910 a concrete slab roof - a measure to protect the vaulted ceiling – was installed, but sadly this itself is now in an advanced state of disrepair. Preliminary discussions for a handover of ownership are currently taking place.
West Kilbride is set on the west coast of Scotland by the Firth of Clyde and enjoys a population of around 6,000, The area has been widely settled for centuries and boasts significant buildings dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. From the 18th century the local economy was based around weaving and agriculture – particularly oats, barley, flax and the renowned Ayreshire potatoes. Today land is largely given over to pastoral farming with the major sources of local employment provided by the Hunterston oil terminal and the Hunterston B nuclear power station. West Kilbride has recently become a centre for traditional crafts.
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/programmes/restoration/2004/scotland_portencross_castle_01.shtml
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