Mine Plantation

Downs, Moorland in Ayrshire

Scotland

Mine Plantation

End-terrace on Maxwood Road Credit: Alan Reid

Mine Plantation is a vast estate located in Ayrshire, Scotland, known for its diverse landscapes comprising downs, moorland, and fertile grounds. Spanning over hundreds of acres, the plantation offers a picturesque setting that attracts nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike.

The downs of Mine Plantation are characterized by gently rolling hills covered with lush grasses and scattered with wildflowers. This landscape provides a serene atmosphere, offering visitors the opportunity to take leisurely walks or enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst breathtaking views. The downs also serve as grazing areas for the plantation's livestock, including sheep and cattle, adding to the idyllic rural charm.

Moving towards the moorland, visitors are greeted by a more rugged terrain. Heather dominates the landscape, creating a stunning display of purple hues during the summer months. The moorland is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds of prey, grouse, and various small mammals, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

The fertile grounds of Mine Plantation are carefully cultivated, supporting a variety of agricultural activities. Crops such as barley, oats, and potatoes thrive here, contributing to the local economy and providing a source of fresh produce for the surrounding communities.

Overall, Mine Plantation in Ayrshire offers a unique blend of natural beauty and agricultural productivity. Whether it's exploring the downs, wandering through the moorland, or witnessing the bountiful harvest on the fertile grounds, visitors can immerse themselves in the splendor of the Scottish countryside.

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Mine Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.612771/-4.3781156 or Grid Reference NS5038. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

End-terrace on Maxwood Road

Alan Reid

Sunrise over a herd of Ayrshires

Alan Reid

Waterside, Galston

Alan Reid

Sheltered corner at Castle Hill

Alan Reid

Alton Burn

Running to the left through the rushes.

Alan Reid

Downhill to East Newton

Alan Reid

Cattle grazing on Judge's Hill

Alan Reid

Barr Castle - Galston, East Ayrshire

The present tower dates from the 16th century and was the family seat of the Lockhart family until 1670. It passed to the Campbell's of Cessnock and was used as a domicile. It has been used as a barn, a grain store, a town jail, a cholera hospital, a wool store, a school and a religious meeting house. It was acquired by the Duke of Portland for the local Masonic Lodge, St Peter 331 in 1894, who have maintained it until the present day. Barr Castle used to be known as Lockhart’s Tower. One of the Lockharts of Barr is reputed to have been one of the men associated with returning Robert the Bruce's heart to Scotland after it had been lost in a battle abroad by James Douglas who carried it to the Crusades as a dying wish of the famous King. The Scottish Reformers William Wishart and John Knox preached in this place A.D. 1545 and 1556 respectively.

Raibeart MacAoidh

St Sophia's Church - Galston, East Ayrshire

St Sophia's church was constructed 1885-6 and designed by architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. The third Marquess of Bute commissioned Anderson to bring to Galston this echo of the Byzantine Empire. The church is a distinctive building based on Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, which the Marquess had visited and in memory of his mother Lady Sophia Hastings of Loudoun Castle. Built in red brick the church is cruciform in shape with a central round tower topped with a conical roof of red tiles.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Barr Castle - Galston, East Ayrshire

The present tower dates from the 16th century and was the family seat of the Lockhart family until 1670. It passed to the Campbell's of Cessnock and was used as a domicile. It has been used as a barn, a grain store, a town jail, a cholera hospital, a wool store, a school and a religious meeting house. It was acquired in 1894 by the Duke of Portland for the local Masonic Lodge, St Peter 331, who have maintained it until the present day. Barr Castle used to be known as Lockhart’s Tower. One of the Lockharts of Barr is reputed to have been one of the men associated with returning Robert the Bruce's heart to Scotland after it had been lost in a battle abroad by James Douglas who carried it to the Crusades as a dying wish of the famous King. The Scottish Reformers William Wishart and John Knox preached in this place A.D. 1545 and 1556 respectively.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Ruined building, not on map

Remains of a lime kiln, or similar, not sure.

Scott

Remains of Loudoun Castle c 2003

This view used to greet visitors to the now closed Loudoun Castle Theme Park. Image shows the castle as it was in 2003.

Tom Morrison

Small Burn

Small burn in Big Wood.

Scott

Site of Galston station, 1997

View NW approaching Galston village. The station had been on the right, on the ex-GSWR line which ran from Kilmarnock (to left) to Darvel (to right) under the road and was closed 6/4/64 to passengers, 6/7/64 to goods.

Ben Brooksbank