CULZEAN CASTLE

Culzean Castle and Country Park is the most visited property belonging to the National Trust for Scotland, and one of the country's major tourist attractions. It lies on the coast of Ayrshire, facing both the southern tip of Arran and the Mull of Kintyre. The Castle was built by David, 10^th Earl of Cassilis in 1772-1790 to surround an earlier, more warlike building that was the stronghold of the Kennedy clan, of which the Earls were the Chieftans. The house contains fine plaster work, an almost unique round drawing-room and a remarkable oval staircase, which stands high in the catalogue of wonderful staircases, of which the Adams were always inordinately fond. The Kennedy pictures and the 18^th century furniture set off the traditional armoury (which was, in fact, established in the 19^th century, long after Scotland had become peaceful). There is an Eisenhower room that relates the Supreme Commander's links with Scotland in general, Culzean in particular, since part of the living quarters was made available for his use after World War II. Some of these apartments, and others, are offered to visitors as exclusive accommodation. Culzean is also Scotland's first Country Park, set up in 1969, and it extends to 563 acres (225 ha) from the shoreline to Deer Park; from mature woodlands and parklands to the Swan pond.