Ayrshire

Scotland > South of Scotland > Ayrshire

Ayrshire has something for everyone, beautiful scenery, fascinating history, exciting sports, superior accommodation, gourmet dining , and of course, Golf - Ayrshire has it all and more.

Whether you are seeking a relaxing break in peaceful historic surroundings or are keen to tackle adventure and activity in the great outdoors, there is something here for you.
With an excellent transport network allowing easy access via air, sea, road and rail, Ayrshire is the perfect destination for a short or long stay.

The world-renowned poet Robert Burns was born in the county and there are a host of places to visit associated with him.

Begin with Burns' birthplace in Alloway, where the Burns Cottage and Museum show where the poet spent his early childhood and where relics of his life and works are housed. The Tam O'Shanter Experience is well worth visiting with its unique audiovisual presentation of one of Burns' most famous works. The Auld Brig O'Doon and the Auld Alloway Kirk , also made famous in Tam O'Shanter , are close by as well as the Burns Monument, erected in 1820 and situated
in beautiful gardens on the banks of the River Doon.

Visit the Bachelors Club in Tarbolton, now a museum, where Burns and his friends founded a Debating Club in 1780, before carrying on to Mauchline where there is a memorial to 'Highland Mary', who was betrothed to Burns but died tragically before they could wed. In Mauchline itself is the Burns House Museum, the restored house where Burns and his wife Jean Armour lived, and Poosie Nansies Tavern, a favourite haunt of the poet, remains a hostelry to this day. The graves of four of Burns' children can also be seen in the Mauchline churchyard.

Alternatively, visit Souter Johnnie's Cottage in Kirkoswald, the former home of one of Burns' closest friends.
If architecture and history are what you're looking for, then spend some time exploring Culzean Castle and Crossraguel Abbey. The Abbey, near Maybole, was founded in the early 13th century by the Earl of Carrick. It is one of few Cluniac settlements in Scotland and the extensive remains of the Abbey are of high architectural distinction, and can still be explored , the church, the chapter house and much of the domestic premises can still be seen.

Save plenty of time for a trip to Culzean Castle and Country Park. A stunning, beautifully furnished castle designed in 1777 by Robert Adam, Culzean is considered to be the finest example of Georgian architecture in the country. It contains many historical treasures, as well as an Eisenhower Exhibition which explains how the General came to be associated with Culzean.

The history of the Vikings in Scotland is brought to life at Vikingar! Hear Odin tell of the Viking Gods and find the truth behind the legends from your Viking storyteller. Take a gentle stroll along the Esplanade at Largs. Spend time at Kelburn Castle and Country Park. Kelburn , the home of the Earls of Glasgow since the thirteenth century , boasts waterfalls, gardens, glen walks, a Secret Forest, a riding centre, play area, shop and licensed café.

Don't miss the Loudon theme park at Galston, fun for all the family.