THE 200-year-old Kilwinning Abbey clock tower opened its doors to visitors over the Easter weekend.

Members of Kilwinning Heritage were on hand to welcome 92 visitors who came to see the Heritage Centre and to have a guided tour around the four floors of exhibits.

Of special interest was The Byres Road Story, an exhibition about the former weavers’ cottages which are currently under restoration by the owners. 

Also celebrating its bi-centenary this year is the original clock mechanism in the Tower.

The clock, originally operated by a system of weights and pulleys, was built back in 1816 by Kilwinning clockmaker, James Blair.

Although now powered by electricity, the clock wheels are still turning and a close view of the internal workings is a fascinating discovery for those prepared to climb the spiral staircase.

At Easter, among those who visited was an 82-year-old Kilwinning man who climbed to the roof for the first time in his life.

Also enjoying an amazing view of the town and the Ayrshire countryside were visitors from Chile, Uruguay and Nepal, as
well as people from all over the UK and local residents.

The Tower is now closed until May 20, when it will re-open for the summer season on Friday to Sundays between 1pm and 3pm every week.

Admission to the Clock Tower is free.