Ayr, Brig Port

NS32SW 34 3389 3389 2213

For adjacent Auld Brig (Old Bridge of Ayr), see NS32SW 6.

(NS 3389 2213) Brig Port (NR) (remains of)

OS 25" map (1961)

The Brig Port, presumably built in the 16th century (R Gourlay and A Turner 1977) barring the Auld Brig route, was the most important of all the ports of Ayr. It was manned permanently on a rota until 1588 when four wardens were paid to carry out this task. In 1604, a little watch-house was built for them at the Brig Port, although in 1546 there existed a Brig Lodge, perhaps for a different purpose. The Brig Port was demolished in 1777. About 1909 when the Auld Brig being repaired, the lower walls of the old triangular toll, or guardhouse, were also exposed on the north side of the bridge.

A I Dunlop 1953

At NS 3389 2213 are the remains of a small guard-house, 4.0m high externally, i.e. on the east and 1.5m internally. Remains of a fireplace can be seen in the north wall. A plaque on the wall states: "Site of the Bridge Port - Mid 17th century".

Visited by OS (JLD) 27 December 1955

The remains of the guard-house are as described.

Visited by OS (MJF) 30 October 1980