Dunton Cove

Dunton Cove is an artificial cave cut into a rocky outcrop above the Craufurdland Water in East Ayrshire. It stands near the junction of Dunton Water and Calf Fauld Water, close to the village of Waterside. The site overlooks the river and is surrounded by forestry plantations on the east bank. A private farm road leads from Airtnoch Farm past the cave towards Craigendunton and an old reservoir. The cave’s rectangular entrance is clearly visible from the water below. The cave is small, holding only a few people, and its straight-edged opening shows it was shaped by human hands. Hand and footholds were carved into the rock face to help climbers reach the entrance. Inside, the space is plain with no built-in features, suggesting it was used only for quick hiding when soldiers were near. Local tradition says that branches of gorse or willow were tied across the opening to hide it from view. Historical records from the 17th century show strong support for the Covenanters in this area. Visitors today see a rugged cliffside above a flowing river, with the cave’s entrance standing out against the stone. The surrounding woodland and moorland add to the remote feel of the spot. Nearby farms such as Lochgoin and Airtnoch were once linked to Covenanter families. Other caves in Ayrshire, like Cleeves Cove and Peden’s Cave, share similar stories of concealment. The site remains a quiet reminder of a time when people hid in these hills to escape danger.