Introduction
This afternoon I am reporting on the historic town of Kilmarnock in S.W. Scotland.
Information on Kilmarnock
Population is 47,000 and location about 23 miles S.W. of Glasgow. The town benefits from good road, rail and bus links.
Although not on the ‘tourist trail’ the town does-indirectly- have global recognition. It is the former home of Johnnie Walker whisky, and Robert Burns (Scotland’s National Poet) had a close connection with the town. Furthermore, Kilmarnock F.C. play in Scotland’s Premier League (soccer) and the town is famous for it’s eponymous meat pie.
The name may date back to around the 6th century AD.It translates as ‘cell of my Ernon’ which points to arrival of an Irish Christian missionary named Ernon. The suffix ‘nock’ is the Gaelic word for hill.
Dick Institute
About a ten minute walk from the town centre. A combined art gallery, library and museum with large section on Robert Burns.
Johnnie Walker Connection
The famous blended whisky known as ‘Johnnie Walker’ can trace its origins to a grocery store in Kilmarnock. This was established in 1820 by a 15 year old, John Walker. John’s experiments with whisky blending founded a business which was developed by his son into the global brand we know today. Whilst the brand lives on, the bottling and blending activities at Kilmarnock ceased in 2012.
Former Distillery
Statue of John Walker
Narrative on the pillar reads ” You, Vulcan God of Labour Who Is He. Mercury as Walker Distilled in this Town. Industry is a compact between Labour and Capital.”
Robert Burns Connection
It was at Kilmarnock that printer/publisher John Wilson published the first edition (‘Kilmarnock Edition’) of a collection of poems by Robert Burns. This served to establish Burns on the literary stage and, ultimately, his position as Scotland’s National Poet.
Burns Memorial in Kay Park
Mural at the Burns World Federation
Information on Burns at Dick Institute
Kilmarnock Edition at Dick Institute
Kilmarnock F.C.
Home to a well resourced stadium but at time writing team languishes close to bottom of the Premier League.
Entrance to Stadium
Kilmarnock F.C. Merchandise
Kilmarnock Pie
Made from beef steak/diced steak with gravy and other fillings. Produced by Brownings the Bakers in Kilmarnock.
Various Photographs
View from Old Town Bridge (Town Centre)
View from Kay Park
Kilmarnock Water (river) flowing through centre of town.
Dean Castle
This popular visitor attraction is located about 1 mile from Kilmarnock.
Review by Walking Bonnie Scotland from the Daily Record newspaper.
“Kilmarnock, around 20 miles from Glasgow, has been named Scotland’s “most underrated town” by Walking Bonnie Scotland. The travel blog praised its architecture, history, walking trails and easy access to nature. The East Ayrshire town has more than 280 listed buildings and structures. Historic attractions include the Dick Institute and Dean Castle, alongside independent shops and restaurants. Locals also celebrate Halloween early with an annual tradition known as Killieween. The celebration takes place on the last Friday of October rather than October 31.”
More information
The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland contains a wide range of information for the visitor. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.