Law Castle

Law Castle stands on the lower slopes of Law Hill near the edge of West Kilbride in North Ayrshire. It is a simple rectangular tower house with a sloped roof and large chimneys on each side. The building resembles other nearby tower houses such as Little Cumbrae Castle and Skelmorlie Castle. It is a category A listed building, recognised for its historical significance. The castle is located about 200 metres from West Kilbride railway station. The castle was built in 1467 as a wedding gift for Princess Mary, sister of King James III, when she married Thomas Boyd, Earl of Arran. The marriage ended when Thomas was forced to stay abroad after being accused of treason in 1469. The castle later fell into disrepair and was recorded as roofless but intact in the late 19th century. Restoration began in the late 1980s but was halted when the property was repossessed in 2002. The work was finally completed in 2005 by a new owner. Visitors to Law Castle find a restored tower house with a simple but solid structure. The interior reflects its 15th-century origins, though much of the original detail has been lost. The surrounding area offers views across the Firth of Clyde and towards the Isle of Arran. The castle’s exterior remains largely unchanged since its restoration. The nearby railway station makes it easily accessible for those exploring North Ayrshire.