Broad Rock

Island in Ayrshire

Scotland

Broad 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

Broad Rock is a small island located in Ayrshire, Scotland. Situated in the Firth of Clyde, it is part of the larger group of islands known as the Ayrshire Islands. The island is roughly 2.5 miles long and 0.5 miles wide, with a total land area of approximately 250 acres.

Broad Rock is primarily composed of rugged cliffs and rocky shores, with no significant vegetation or trees. The island's topography is characterized by its steep cliffs, rising to a height of around 100 feet in some areas. The coastline is dotted with numerous caves and sea stacks, providing a habitat for various seabird species.

The island is uninhabited and lacks any permanent structures or facilities. Its remote location and challenging terrain make it inaccessible to visitors, except for experienced climbers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding waters are known for their strong currents and can be treacherous, making it important for visitors to exercise caution.

Despite its limited human presence, Broad Rock is teeming with wildlife. Seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills can be seen nesting on the cliffs, while grey seals can often be spotted basking on the rocky shores. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, attracting seals, dolphins, and occasionally even whales.

Broad Rock serves as an important breeding ground and sanctuary for various bird species, contributing to the biodiversity of the region. Its rugged beauty and untouched nature make it an intriguing destination for those seeking a true wilderness experience in the Ayrshire area.

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Broad Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.645667/-4.8348476 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

Gordon Brown

Boydstone Shore

The Firth of Clyde to the left and the busy A78 to the right. This pavement is here part of the Ayrshire Coastal Path - and well walked.

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

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