Caprington Castle is often overlooked by visitors to Kilmarnock, as many are unaware of its existence. Even I, having lived in the town for several years, had never heard of it until recently. And honestly, I wish I’d discovered it sooner! It’s now one of my favourite walks in Kilmarnock. Caprington Estate may be small, but its scenery and network of walking trails provide a peaceful countryside escape without venturing too far from the town centre, making it an excellent choice for a free day out in Ayrshire. I love Caprington Castle, and so will you.
Caprington Castle
Caprington Castle is a 15th-century keep seamlessly integrated into a castellated mansion roughly 2 miles southwest of Kilmarnock in East Ayrshire, Scotland. This historic residence is the private domain of the Cunningham family and is not accessible to the public. However, the castle’s expansive grounds are free to explore, offering relaxing walks by the River Irvine and through the surrounding woodland.
How To Get To Caprington Castle
I live in Kilmarnock, so I usually walk to Caprington Castle. Although, you can always drive or take the bus to the estate before exploring the grounds on foot.
Here are your options:
By Car
Caprington Castle is roughly 28 miles (45.06 km) from Glasgow. If you’re coming up from Stranraer, it’s a 61.5 mile (98.97 km) drive with lots of worthy stops along the way, like Bennane Cave, Sawney Bean’s Cave, Girvan Beach, Croy Shore Beach and Dunure Castle.
When you arrive in Kilmarnock, the easiest way to reach Caprington Estate by car is via Ayr Road (B7038). The entrance to the estate is near Caprington Golf Club.
Postcode: KA1 4UW
There is parking at Caprington Golf Club. But, I believe this car park is reserved for customers… You should be able to find a parking space on Caprington Avenue.
I’ve attached a map below showing the location of the entrance to Caprington Estate so you can plan your route.
By Public Transport
Regular buses and trains service Kilmarnock from the surrounding towns and Glasgow.
You can reduce the amount of walking required to reach Caprington Estate by taking the bus. Stagecoach service 4 (Kilmarnock – Ayr) stops near Caprington Estate. Get off the bus on Ayr Road near Caprington Avenue. Walk southwest on Ayr Road and take a right at the crossroads towards Caprington Golf Club. Continue past the car park, and you’ll see the entrance to the estate ahead.
Alternatively, you can enter the estate from the opposite side. Stagecoach service 10 (Kilmarnock – Troon) stops near Caprington Estate. Get off the bus on Holmes Road near Holmes Farm Road and head southwest. Walk through the A71 Underpass, and you’ll see the entrance to the estate ahead.
Bus Within Ayrshire
Consider using the bus if you’re coming from another town within Ayrshire and check your ticket prices against an Ayrshire DayRider. You might be able to save some money on your journey, especially if you have more stops to make. I personally use an Ayrshire DayRider for most of my trips as they’re a great budget option. They offer unlimited bus travel around the region for only £7.50.
How To Walk To Caprington Castle From Kilmarnock Town Centre
If you would prefer to walk to Caprington Castle from Kilmarnock Town Centre, it will take roughly 45 minutes (one way).
Here is my preferred route:
- Walk south on King Street and continue onto Titchfield Street.
- Turn right onto Douglas Street immediately after passing the Galleon Leisure Centre.
- Before crossing the bridge into Howard Park, turn left onto Nursery Street.
- Take a right at the roundabout onto West Netherton Street and enter Howard Park.
- Head through Howard Park (with the basketball court on your right-hand side) and exit onto Howard Park Drive.
- Turn onto Wallace Street.
- At the end of Wallace Street, turn right on McLelland Drive.
- When you arrive at the traffic lights, turn left onto Dundonald Road (A759).
- Walk on Dundonald Road until you reach Holmes Road.
- Follow Holmes Road all the way to the A71 Underpass.
- The entrance to Caprington Estate is straight ahead.
Best Time To Visit Caprington Castle
Caprington Castle is beautiful all year round, with each change in season bringing a different experience. My favourite times to visit Caprington Estate are in summer when the foliage is green or in winter after snowfall.
This location doesn’t generally get busy. You’ll meet others while walking the grounds, but overall, it’s a very peaceful area.
If combining Caprington Castle with some of the better-known locations in Ayrshire, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a good choice. Temperatures will be milder, but you’ll see fewer people. Scottish schools break for the summer at the end of June and usually go back in mid-August. Visit on a weekday outside of these dates if you can.
Aim for a dry day unless you’ve packed waterproof hiking boots or wellies. The walking trails at Caprington Estate can get pretty muddy!
My Visit To Caprington Castle
I walked to Caprington Castle from Kilmarnock Town Centre, entering the estate via the entrance on Holmes Road, then onto the private road and over the bridge crossing the River Irvine… My usual route.
Looking to the right, across the field, I got my first glimpse of Caprington Castle. The views in summer never disappoint, with the whole area bursting with vibrant greens. Definitely a pleasant change from my last walk around the Caprington Estate in winter when the trees were bare.
Since this visit was near the end of July, it was warm and sunny. Thankfully, the trees provided plenty of shade as I headed towards the castle. Photographing the woodland proved challenging with the harsh sunlight, but I still had fun trying!
As construction work was underway at the front end of Caprington Castle, I didn’t get many photos of the building itself. Instead, I spent an hour or so walking the trails, taking in the view and enjoying the peace and quiet.
Caprington Castle Highlights
Caprington Estate
The approach to Caprington Castle through the estate is beautiful. Even if you stick to the road, the trees towering overhead from both ends block the outside world. My favourite part of Caprington Estate is just off the private road, near the gate on the far end. It’s a short section of trail, but the woodland scenery is lovely. Walk to the small wooden bridge crossing the stream and chill.
Relaxation
While wandering the grounds of Caprington Estate, it’s easy to forget all about the close proximity to Kilmarnock. It’s far quieter than Dean Castle Country Park and Craufurdland Castle Country Estate and genuinely feels like a countryside location. There are lots of places to relax in the woodlands where you’ll be left alone. Sit behind one of the tall trees… Nobody will know you’re there.
ADVENTURE EDIT
Walking And Hiking
I always walk the same way around Caprington Estate and opt for a circular route since walking out and back to the castle means missing the more scenic parts.
It doesn’t take long to fully explore the grounds, so be sure to also wander the minor trails as you encounter them. Just pay attention to and respect any signage placed by the landowners notifying visitors of wildlife (such as ducklings), trail closures and redirections.
Cycling And Mountain Biking
For mountain bikers, there are a few areas where you can practice your technical skills… But Craufurdland Castle Country Estate is probably a better choice.
Since you’re in the area, check out Sprockets Cycles near the Caprington Golf Club entrance to the estate. Easily one of the best bike shops in Ayrshire!
Facilities And Amenities
Nearest Town
Kilmarnock Town Centre is within reasonable walking distance of Caprington Castle if you need to stock up on supplies.
Public Toilets
There are no public toilets at Caprington Castle. You might be able to find customer toilets at the nearby Matalan or Dewaldens Garden Centre. There’s also a Tesco Extra near Howard Park.
Food And Drink
While there are no shops in Caprington Estate, you’ll find a little coffee shop on McLelland Drive across the road from Howard Park. Central Park Coffee Shop doesn’t look like much from the outside, but when you enter, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Where To Next?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Craig Swain has lived in Ayrshire (Scotland) for almost 40 years. He travels extensively around the region, seeking the best destinations, adventures, and experiences.
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