Living OUR AREA Ochiltree

Ochiltree or Uchletree as it was known in the Middle Ages lies on the main Ayr-Cumnock Road. It is one of the oldest villages in East Ayrshire with relics being found that indicate Stone and Bronze age settlers however the name - meaning a high place - is believed to have British origins. There was an influx of Briton's from the Clyde Valley around 75 AD.

The main street is flanked by traditional single storey cottages that climb the gentle slope where an estate of local authority housing lies. One of these former cottages was the House of the Green Shutters made famous by the novel of that name written by George Douglas Brown, a former son of the village.

As with many other Ayrshire villages many of Ochiltree's working men were previously employed in the pits - the Barony being the last. Traditionally some were employed in agriculture in the surrounding area which has provided a  number of seasonal opportunities. However for a number of years now employment has been sought in Ayr and Cumnock.