Scottish Castles Association

Preserving the Past for the Future


Sorn Castle (Ayrshire) - Past and Present

Sorn Castle is an extensive mansion which hides within a 14th-century tower house.

Sorn 1792 1900
LEFT: Sorn Castle in 1792 RIGHT: Greatly extended by 1900

Situated, like so many Ayrshire castles, on the banks of a ravine, it presents a fine appearance. Incorporated in buildings ranging from the 18th-20th centuries, the early part is clearly visible consisting of a massive square tower of circa 1400. This tower was extended in the 16th century, the additions sympathetically working in harmony with the old, as was the final work, completed in 1909. The result is a pleasing, homogenous building where, even experienced eyes have to look hard to find the joins. The corbels and the rounds are particularly pleasing.

Having been the private mansion of an Edwardian shipping magnate – who lavished his wealth on the interior – it is now a popular venue for weddings.

The Scottish Castles Association visited Sorn in 2015 exploring its delights inside and out.

Sorn 2015
LEFT: Sorn Castle's river frontage in 2015 RIGHT:Sorn Castle's 1908 façade as viewed in 2015

Article by SCA member Brian McGarrigle.



Added: 26 May 2016 Updated: 26 May 2016
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