HERITAGE lovers from across Ayrshire and beyond are invited to attend 'Unlocking the Tower' celebration at Ayr's St John's Ayr next Saturday.

This is a rare opportunity to see inside the tower which is not often open to the public. The family friendly event, organised by Scotland's Urban Past (SUP) will host a range of activities, re-enactments and tours celebrating the tower's history.

On Saturday, May 6 from 10am until 4pm visitors will be able to explore the tower and learn more about the significant past. 

This will involve a range of activities for all ages, from historic graffiti to treasure hunts, from laser scanning to virtual reality.

The Tower – the oldest building in Ayr – is the surviving fragment of the original 12th century parish church and has a unique and fascinating history. Oliver Cromwell constructed a fort on the site in the 1650s, and the church was commandeered as a store, mill house and chapel with the tower as an armoury and look-out. The church was pulled down in 1726 but the tower was retained as a navigation beacon.

Chiara Ronchini, Project Manager with SUP said: “Unlocking the Tower is a rare opportunity for everyone to visit the tower, which is not usually open to the public. 

"Through the diverse programme of activities on the day people will be able to unlock the fascinating secrets of the tower. I would like to thank South Ayrshire Council who manage the tower and the grounds for making the event possible.’’

A spokesperson for the Friends of St John’s Tower added: ‘We are delighted Scotland’s Urban Past will be holding Unlocking the Tower. Lots of interesting activities are planned and we are sure it will be a great event.”

Jill Cronin, Head of Enterprise, Development and Leisure at South Ayrshire Council, said: "The tower is an iconic building and the perfect setting for an event which celebrates Ayr’s medieval roots. 

"In the interest of preservation, we don’t open the tower all that often so this is a golden opportunity to explore the grounds and the tower which has dominated Ayr’s skyline for centuries."

SUP is a nationwide community engagement project led by Historic Environment Scotland and Heritage Lottery funded, providing free training, support and resources to people of all ages.

The event is free and will be held at the tower itself, St John’s Tower in Ayr. Entrance to the tower is on Bruce Crescent, opposite Citadel Place.