Culzean castle, Ayr

The castle is perched on the Ayrshire cliffs, incorporating everything the earl could wish for in his country home. It was designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century and is filled to the turrets with treasures that tell the stories of the people who lived here.

Set on a 260ha estate it was once the playground of David Kennedy the 10th Earl of Cassillis – a man who was keen to impress with his wealth and status.The gardens include miles of sandy coastline dotted with caves, a Swan Pond, an ice house, flamboyant formal gardens and fruit-filled glasshouses.