Today, our group visited Culzean Castle in Ayrshire, Scotland. Prime reason for the visit was to participate in a guided tour of the caves which are located at foot of the castle and which are officially classified as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and normally closed to the public.Exploring the caves proved quite exciting and verged on potholing at one stage.We all emerged covered in mud but very satisfied with this unusual experience. Will post video of the caving tomorrow.

This evening, I am concentrating on the castle proper which has evolved from a Tower House to a grand house which mainly dates form the 18th century from a design by master architect, Robert Adam. Construction of the building bankrupted the 10th Earl of Cassilis who died of stress in 1796, just one year after Robert Adam's death.

Catalyst for the design was a 'Grand Tour' visit to Rome by Sir Thomas Kennedy which resulted in a neo-classical building which ranks as one of the best examples of Enlightenment architecture in Europe.

The Castle also benefits from a superb cliff top location with views across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran and Mull of Kintyre, aspects of which can be seen in the video clip.

Inside, the castle boasts a spectacular Oval Staircase, impressive armoury and the Circular Saloon with panoramic views.

Culzean is managed by the National Trust of Scotland ( a heritage organisation). One of the apartment's was gifted to General Dwight Eisenhower in 1945.

Apart from the caves and grand house the grounds have much to offer including a deer park, swan pond and a wide choice of gardens.