KELBURN CASTLE . AYRSHIRE
The image above is enhanced to show this renowned castle in all its dramatic glory. The ancient seat of the Earls of Glasgow dates from C13 – one of the oldest castles in Scotland and the longest continuous family line of descent. This article is adapted from an earlier one published elsewhere. You will find further information about this magnificently daring blend of ancient and modern at the end.
A FINE MULTI-FACETED SCOTTISH SUNDIAL AT KELBURN CASTLE, AYRSHIRE
If you want to find a good choice of multi-faceted sundials, Scotland is the place to go. A considerable number may be found at country houses and castles, or elsewhere having originated from a large estate. Many, perhaps most, are 200-300 years old. Some are relatively simple; others are so complex that their purpose is clearly as much ornamental as horological. Good examples can be found at Glamis, Haddo House, Castle Fraser and Culzean Castle.
The 1707 multi-faceted oblelisk sundial at Kelburn is one of the most important sundials in Scotland. Some restoration has been carried out, and it now appears to be in overall good condition. While there seems to be no agreed figure for the exact number of individual dials, the count starts at 70.
I’ve made no attempt to describe the dials for obvious reasons, but there are links at the end that will be helpful for those who want to investigate further than looking at the photos.
THE SUNDIAL FROM EACH ORIENTATION
EAST SIDE
NORTH SIDE
WEST SIDE
SPIRE
NOTES
Kelburn’s astonishing transformation from early medieval stronghold into an outrageous post-psychedelic House of Fun began in 2007. The building’s concrete cladding needed to be replaced, following which (and with official approval) four Brazilian graffiti artists were invited to let their imaginations run loose. And did.
There is plenty of material online about this remarkable building – see link to its website below. Enterprises on offer include weddings; yurts; summer music festival; a reputedly scary Halloween. Summed up in the estate material: It’s a cultural safari for the mind, body and soul.
GATTY (p 140)
BSS
The Kelburn Dial featured in Bulletin 1996 in connection with a later dial based on it
DESCRIPTIVE NOTE
LINKS
KELBURN CASTLE & ESTATE Castle website
ANCIENT SUNDIALS OF SCOTLAND (Somerville)
HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT SCOTLAND Listing details
There is a second, smaller obelisk sundial NW of the castle that receives rather less attention: Sundial to west of Kelburn Castle, Kelburn Castle Estate, Fairlie (LB7298). Listing details can be found HERE
GSS Category: Obelisk Dial; Multiple Dial; Scottish Sundial
All photos and material: Keith Salvesen except as indicated
GAUDIUM SUB SOLE . SUNDIALS . MEDIEVAL TO MODERN 
