| Alloway |
 |
| The Old Kirk, picture by Matt Fraser |
Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, provided inspiration for one of his most famous poems 'Tam o' Shanter' Click  for the full poem. As a child he is said to have enjoyed supernatural tales about local witches, and the haunted local church, which may have provided fertile ground for the tale.
Tam o' Shanter describes how Tam, returning from a heavy drinking session in Ayr, passes the haunted Kirk, and disturbs a coven of witches. Tam flees over the 13th Century Brig o' Doon across running water and to safety, with the witches on his heels. He is only just in time, and the grasping witches pull the tail from his horse as he crosses the bridge.
The poem may have origins in an old tale, as it has similarity with other folk tales of the same nature. The old bridge is still standing, as is the atmospheric ruined church. The cottage where Robert Burns was born is also preserved, now a museum dedicated to his life.
|
| Map ref: NS 3218 |
| Directions: The old Kirk, and the Brig o' Doon are situated on the B7024 from Ayr. |
|
|
 |
| Cessnock Castle |
The castle dates from the 15th century, and was a stronghold of the Campbell's. The castle was converted to a mansion house much later in its history.
Mary Queen of Scots is said to have come to the castle after her defeat at the battle of Langside (the site of which is also said to be haunted). One of her ladies in waiting died during her brief stay and she is said to haunt the castle.
Another roaming spirit is said to be that of John Knox, who wanders the castle preaching sermons.
|
| Map ref: NS 511 355 |
| Directions: Just off the B7037 from Galston. |
|
|
