From the pleasant coastal towns that dot the shores of the Firth of Clyde, to rugged Galloway and the charming islands, Ayrshire and Arran is awash with attractions. The region is also renowned for the quality of its golf courses, as well as a raft of opportunities to get active outdoors (both on land and on the water). A bountiful natural larder and a range of first-rate cultural attractions complete the region’s appeal. We’ve drawn up a list of the top 11 things to do, to help you plan your visit!
1. Burns
Ayrshire’s most famous son was, of course, Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns. His legacy is evident across Ayrshire, but nowhere more so than his birthplace. In Alloway you can visit the cottage where he was born or learn more about his life and works at the superb and modern Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
2. Food and Drink
Ayrshire and Arran are renowned for the quality food and drink that is produced in the region and on the island. Think stunning bacon and bountiful dairy produce – including mouthwatering ice-cream and cheese. The area’s seafood is excellent too. Savour the region’s wares in a growing number of great cafes and restaurants.
3. Castles
Ayrshire & Arran boast myriad castles from world famous Culzean Castle (which needs a whole day to visit the castle and grounds), through to the ruins of Robert the Bruce’s little visited old bolthole at Turnberry and on to stately Brodick Castle on Arran.
4. Cumbrae
Ten minutes away by ferry from the mainland Cumbrae is a wee gem that can be cycled around in a few hours, with beaches aplenty, the sportscotland National Centre Cumbrae for watersports and the relaxed island capital of Millport.
5. Arran
Less than an hour by ferry from the mainland Arran – appositely dubbed ‘Scotland in Miniature’ – has it all. On e eating and drinking front it has a lip smacking food trail, an excellent brewery and a first-rate distillery. Then tr is its glorious scenery, adventure sports, sandy beaches and world-class walking and cycling routes.
6. Walking
This fertile ‘corner’ of Scotland boasts myriad great walking routes. Whether you want to Arran’s majestic glens and mountains, enjoy a leisurely stroll through a country park or take on the epic Ayrshire Coastal Path (147.5km) there will be a walk to suit you.
7. PS Waverley
This historic gem – now in her early 70s – was built in 1946. Today she is the last seagoing (passenger carrying) paddle steamer in the world. Enjoy a scenic tour of the Ayrshire coast on a truly unique and beautiful vessel. www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk
8. The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
Situated on the fringes of the Galloway Forest Park, the observatory gives visitors the chance to see some of the darkest skies in the UK.
9. Dumfries House
A walled garden, adventure playground, maze, arboretum and estate walks are just some of the things that make Dumfries House a great place for a family day out. Then of course there is the chance to tour the striking Palladian country house itself.