Scotland Travel Search - South of Scotland Ayrshire & Isle of Arran-Tourism Information Directory


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Fifty miles from top to bottom, the coast of south Ayrshire snakes its way through lively resorts, several delightful parks, a fairly nice stretch of beach, and Scotland's premier racecourse, the venue for the Scottish Grand National and the Ayr Gold Cup.

The Isle of Arran in North Ayrshire is the largest of the Clyde Islands. It's known as "Scotland in Miniature,' as it's only 20 miles long and 10 miles wide. This gorgeous island is a vast land of contrast. The northern side of the island is mountainous, and the southern is typically lowlands. Around the coast are sheltered sandy bays, rugged cliffs and small creeks. Regardless of where you are, the Isle of Arran has a pleasantly mild climate.

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Crossraguel Abbey, for some reason, is much overlooked. That's somewhat surprising, considering its singularity. The Abbey was founded in the early 13th century by the Earl of Carrick, and the remains still stand today, including the church, cloister, chapter house, and much of the domestic premises including the dove house, as the monks not only ate doves, but relied on them for their eggs.

Golfers are spoilt with 44 golf courses to choose from including world famous Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick. Alloway, near the town of Ayr, was the birthplace of Robert Burns and the house is now the Burns Cottage and Museum. In Irvine, the lively story of Scotland's seagoing past can be found in the Scottish Maritime Museum. Awaiting restoration is the massive hulk of the Carrick, a clipper once famous for out-performing the Cutty Sark. The boat shop serves as an exhibition hall.

Kilmarnock, in the heart of Ayr countryside, is the area's premier shopping town... if you're after whisky or carpets. Inland from here is Kilmarnock's Dean Castle, a restored 14th century fortress full of armour and early musical instruments.

The coastal town of Largs in North Ayrshire is popular with Glaswegians for its sun and sand. 'Glaswegian' is a term that came about in 1281 when King Eric married Margaret, the daughter of Alexander III. He from Norway, she from Glasgow, hence Glaswegian. To learn more about the Viking era visit 'Vikingar!' a thrilling multi-media experience with vividly evokes the Vikings' way of life. Kelburn Castle (in Largs) gives great views out to the islands, as well as quite a bit of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, tours of the castle mansion, and visits to the 'Secret Forest.' Largs is also popular with cyclists.

Perched on a dramatic cliff-top is one of Ayrshire's premier tourist attractions… the amazing Culzean Castle. Built by master architect Robert Adam in 1777 during the 'Age of Elegance', the castle is a bit of contrast…the exterior preserving a medieval feel, yet the interior harmonious with a Classical design. There is even a small exhibition that celebrates President Eisenhower's military and civilian career as well as his association with Culzean; Ike stayed here on several occasions and the old owners of the castle gave the top floor to him. The grounds are truly stunning, as the 567 spacious acres surrounding the castle form the first of Scotland's designated country parks. The farm home on premises of the gardens serves as a visitor's centre, where you can pick up free maps to help you get your bearings around the place. Take a picnic lunch to Swan Lake, or take a stroll down the seashore. This is truly a site not to be missed!

Catch the ferry across from Androssan to the Isle of Arran for some adventurous walking through forests and along the coast. Upon approach to the Isle of Arran the first thing you notice is the magnificent Brodick Castle, splashed in front of the towering mountain of Goat's Fell. Tour the castle and its collections of porcelain, paintings, and heirlooms of the Hamilton family.

Perhaps the most famous attraction on the Isle is the Machrie Moor Stone Circles, a much more impressive site than Stonehenge, set in the backdrop of the majestic mountains in the distance. Who knows their purpose; sepulchral or ritualistic? It's the work of a Bronze Age people who supplanted the Neolithic culture. It pre-dates Stonehenge by almost 1000 years.





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