Gadgirth Estate lies in a beautiful wooded setting within the broad sweep of the River Ayr five miles east of the Royal Burgh of Ayr. From at least the early 13th century, its owners, whose surname 'de Camera' in Latin or 'Chalmer' and 'Chalmers' in English, denoted the official post of chamberlain they had held, played an important role in local and national affairs.   Fishing on Gadgirth Estate - 1857 From their wooden tower beside the river, they supported Robert the Bruce in the War of Independence. For this their lands were confiscated by the English, but restored by the Scottish king. A hundred years later John Chalmer of Gadgirth appeared as witness to various charters. In 1417 he was one of 'the best and most trusty men of the country' who assisted in solving the dispute over the rights of the Royal Burgh of Irvine to a piece of neighbouring moorland. He accompanied the army of six thousand Scots, who crossed to France to support the Dauphin (the future Charles VII) against their English enemies. He survived the disaster in 1424 at Vemeuil where the Scottish leaders and all but forty of their followers were slaughtered, and it is said that for the great gallantry he displayed the French king awarded him a fleur de lys to add to his coat of arms. Five years later he was killed during the 'Battle of the Herrings'.     Walled Gardens     Probably in the 15th century, the next castle at Gadgirth was built. Its site was spectacular. Again a broad promontory overlooking the river Ayr was chosen. Deep gullies on three sides ensured excellent defence possibilities. The castle, with walls over 2m thick, was rectangular in shape, rising three stories to battlements and a parapet walk. Small turrets crowned the comers. A wall surrounded the castle and a gate tower guarded the approaches. Gadgirth Mansion house - 1860's       Click here for more history