Mauchline Castle

Before 1177 the monks of Melrose Abbey held lands in Ayrshire, approximately represented by the extent of Mauchline parish. Although repaired in the 19th century, it was described as being "in a state of decay" in 1980.

The tower is built of red ashlar, and measures 10 by, with the walls being 5 ft thick. The entrance is to the south, at ground level, with a statue niche above and a turnpike stair to its left. There are four main storeys, and an attic with crowstep gables. The hall, on the first floor, is rib-vaulted in two bays, and has stone seats in the windows. It is over a vaulted basement comprising two poorly lit chambers. There is an unusual double garderobe chute at the north gable.