West Crinan Rock

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Ayrshire

Scotland

West Crinan Rock

Ardrossan Castle Construction of the castle as we know it began in the 13th century. However little is known of any buildings at the site before the Lands of Ardrossan were gifted to Richard de Barclay by the local feudal lords of the de Morvilles in the 12th century.
The lands passed into the hands of the Eglinton family following the death of the last Barclay Baron of Ardrossan without heirs.
Thereafter it transferred to John de Montgomerie through his marriage to Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Hugh Eglinton sometime after 1736.
The Montgomeries were responsible for a huge programme of reconstruction at Ardrossan Castle, which carried on well into the 15th century. It was the chief seat of the family until the time of Alexander, the first Lord Montgomery, who made Eglinton his principal residence.
Ardrossan remained a stronghold until it was finally destroyed in the 17th century, allegedly at the hands of Oliver Cromwell. — Ardrossan Castle Credit: Raibeart MacAoidh

West Crinan Rock is a prominent coastal feature located in Ayrshire, Scotland. It is a headland that extends into the Firth of Clyde, forming a distinctive point along the coastline. The rock is situated at the mouth of the Crinan River, near the village of Crinan.

Standing at an elevation of approximately 30 meters, West Crinan Rock offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. Its rugged cliffs and rocky terrain make it a picturesque landmark, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The headland is characterized by its exposed, weather-beaten appearance, which adds to its natural charm.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, West Crinan Rock also serves a practical purpose. It acts as a natural breakwater, protecting the nearby shoreline from the powerful waves of the Firth of Clyde. This function has made it an important feature for coastal erosion management in the area.

The location of West Crinan Rock is also significant in terms of wildlife. The surrounding waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including seals, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. This makes the headland a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.

Overall, West Crinan Rock is a captivating coastal feature that offers both natural beauty and practical functionality. Its dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Ayrshire coastline.

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West Crinan Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.642211/-4.831117 or Grid Reference NS2142. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Ardrossan Castle

Construction of the castle as we know it began in the 13th century. However little is known of any buildings at the site before the Lands of Ardrossan were gifted to Richard de Barclay by the local feudal lords of the de Morvilles in the 12th century. The lands passed into the hands of the Eglinton family following the death of the last Barclay Baron of Ardrossan without heirs. Thereafter it transferred to John de Montgomerie through his marriage to Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Hugh Eglinton sometime after 1736. The Montgomeries were responsible for a huge programme of reconstruction at Ardrossan Castle, which carried on well into the 15th century. It was the chief seat of the family until the time of Alexander, the first Lord Montgomery, who made Eglinton his principal residence. Ardrossan remained a stronghold until it was finally destroyed in the 17th century, allegedly at the hands of Oliver Cromwell.

Raibeart MacAoidh

All that remains of Montfode Castle

See also Link

Boat yard

Harbour entrance

Seagull on Outflow

Entrance for Arran Ferry at Ardrossan

Chris Morgan

Caledonian MacBrayne's Ardossan terminal

Chris Morgan

Beacon on Horse Isle

Chris Morgan

Lighthouse and long-stay parking

A view of the harbour wall and parking area. The condition of the sea wall is a matter of concern, and is expected to form part of the works on upgrading the harbour facilities in readiness for the new vessel.

Jonathan Wilkins

Vehicle lanes and ferry terminal building

Ferry facilities at Ardrossan harbour. This area is expected to be re-modelled for extra capacity and speed of loading when the new ferry takes up the service.

Jonathan Wilkins

MV Caledonian Isles

The ferry from Brodick on Arran enters the harbour at Ardrossan.

Jonathan Wilkins

MV Caledonian Isles docking

The ferry on approach to the linkspan with bow-visor raised.

Jonathan Wilkins

Arran view

An atmospheric, afternoon view of Arran from the harbour lighthouse. Navigation markers and the Horse Isle Shelves can be seen near to the shore.

Jonathan Wilkins

Old milestone

This milestone was probably erected for the tollroad from Irvine to Ardrossan and Greenock. The eroded legend on this face may read Ardrossan/½/Largs/12½. It is on South Crescent Road at the junction with South Beach Road.

Bill McMillan

Old milestone

This is the left face of the milestone on South Crescent Road. The legend which can just be discerned is Irvine/8½/Kilwinning/4¾/Saltcoats/1.

Bill McMillan

Old milestone

On North Bay on Montgomerie Road near the junction of Caledonia Road is this very eroded toll road milestone. Until 2008 it was sited at the Shell Bridge. After roadworks it was reset at its current position. This right-hand face has a very eroded Largs 11/Greenock 25 although the bench mark is clear. The left face has Irvine/9½/Kilwinning/5½/Saltcoats/2.

Bill McMillan