Steeped in history and legend, there are a host of wonderful things to do in Ayrshire Scotland. A county of contrasts, and the birthplace of poet Robert Burns, Ayrshire deserves a spot on any Scotland Itinerary.
Explore a stunning coastline sprinkled with sandy beaches. Wander the walls of ancient castles, discover picturesque towns, and follow trails through rolling countryside.
While many visitors head straight to the Scottish Highlands, join those in-the-know, and discover Scotland’s stunning west coast.
This guide covers the best places to visit in Ayrshire, including the beautiful Ayrshire coast. We have included suggestions for accommodation in Ayrshire, and useful visitor information.
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MAP OF AYRSHIRE TOWNS & BEST THINGS TO DO
1. CULZEAN CASTLE
While there are numerous castles in Ayrshire dotted around the coastline, the most famous and popular castle has to be Culzean Castle.
This romantic masterpiece, with stunning views of River Ayr and the sea, sits perched on the Ayrshire cliffs. Sounding this west Scotland treasure are stunning gardens, woods and secret follies.
The 18th-century mansion designed by Robert Adam, is opulent impressive, and filled with elegantly decorated rooms.
A stunning oval staircase forms a dramatic centrepiece, and every room is palatial, and filled with treasures. Other things to check out include,
- Embellished ceilings and fireplaces.
- A great flintlock pistol and military sword collection.
- Swan pond, deer park, adventure cove woodland, and beaches.
Culzean Castle is one of the best days out in Ayeshire, as there is something of interest for all the family.
Location: Off the A719, 12 miles south of Ayr and 4 miles west of Maybole | Official Site: Check ahead for opening times and admission prices.
If you’re interested in castles, Ayrshire has it’s fair share of scenic ruins to explore.
- Greenan Castle – Built in the 15th-century, the remaining 16th-century tower house sits atop a sea cliff. A trail leads to the ruin, and offers great views of the Isle of Arran. When you visit Ayr, the ruin can be seen on the outskirts of town.
- Dunure Castle – The ruin sits perched on a cliff above the pretty fishing village of Dunure. There’s a 13th-century tower, and a 15th-century block, at lower level, with a well-preserved beehive doocot, dating from the 16th or 17th century.
2. EXPLORE DUMFRIES HOUSE & GARDENS
Part of the Prince’s Foundation, Dumfries House is one of Britain’s most stunning stately homes. The estate and 18th-century house are set in 2,000 acres. Visits to the architectural gem are by guided tour only, but worth every penny.
Designed by the Adam brothers in the 1750’s, the beautiful stately home contains an unrivalled collection of Chippendale furniture.
Outside, what was once a boggy dumping site, has now been transformed into an Arboretum, and the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Walled Gardens (fee).
With other various gardens, walking trails, the Avenue Bridge, Chinese Bridge, and great play area to explore, Dumfries House is one of the best places to go in Ayrshire. And yes, of course there’s a rather delightful café serving a delicious range of hot and cold delectables.
Location: Cumnock, Ayrshire, KA18 2NJ | Official Site: Check ahead for opening times and admission charges.
3. FOLLOW IN ROBERT BURNS FOOTSTEPS
Lying 3 miles south of Ayr, is the pretty town of Alloway. Birthplace of Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns, it is a very popular place for both Scottish and overseas visitors.
BURNS COTTAGE
Robert Burns was born in this cottage on the 25th of January 1759, and lived here until the age of seven. Inside is the tiny bed he shared with three siblings.
The kitchen walls have parts of Burn’s verse on the walls, and you can wander the small garden, where his family tended crops.
Scots celebrate Burns Night on the 25th January in honour of the great poet.
ROBERT BURNS BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM
If you want to know everything about Burns this is the place to visit. From his modest early life and work, to his life and legacy.
The museum explores everything about the man, and takes you on an informative journey past historical buildings to landmarks known to him.
On display are his most iconic works, including poems and songs. Sift through manuscripts, books, artworks, and collectors items. Don’t miss Burns’ favourite dishes in the airy café, to help soak up all that newfound knowledge.
POETS PATH
Follow this peaceful pedestrian pathway from the museum to Burns Cottage. Along the way you’ll pass artworks including a larger-than-life granite haggis!
ALLOWAY AULD KIRK
The old church dates back to the early 1200s, with the present structure built in the 1500s. The kirk was a ruin before being the setting for many local legends.
It was these tales that inspired Burns’ famous poem Tam O’Shanter. Opposite the entrance is the grave of William Burns, Robert’s father. From the grounds you can get a glimpse of the top of the Burns Monument in the distance.
BURNS MONUMENT & GARDENS
Nearby the museum, is a 21m high Grecian-style monument in memory to Burns. Opened in 1823, you can climb the staircase for wonderful views across Alloway. Stroll around the beautifully kept gardens, laden with colourful roses.
A small statue house displays sandstone sculptures of Souter Johnnie and Nance Tinnock. The pair feature in Burns’ famous poem Tam O’Shanter. Both the monument and gardens are free to visit, with the gates closing at 4pm.
BRIG O’DOON
Across from the monument gardens you’ll find the cobblestone bridge that spans the River Doon. Providing the setting for Tom O’Shanter, the scenic arched footbridge is so famous, that it bagged a place on the Scottish £5 note.
From the bridge you can see the lovely garden of Brig O’Doon House Hotel, a great spot for a drink overlooking the river.
4. DISCOVER ALL THE THINGS TO DO IN AYR
There are plenty of things to do in Ayr, a west coast town in Ayrshire, known for it’s rich history and sandy beaches. Park along the road that runs parallel with the beach and explore on foot.
Ayr is a popular seaside resort, and its long sandy beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ayrshire, especially with families.
Ayr Racecourse dates back to the 16th-century, and is famous for holding the Scottish Grand National.
The town has some stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings, with landmarks such as Ayr Town Hall, and The Wallace Tower. Other Ayr attractions include:
ST. JOHNS TOWER
Originally the site of Ayr’s parish church, the tower is the only remaining section.
Although you can only view the remnant from the Eglinton Terrace, it is worthy of a stop, as it is a historic site. It was here on the 26th of April 1315, that a meeting of the Parliament convened.
The crown was officially passed to Robert the Bruce, and in 1563, Mary Queen of Scots is rumoured to have stayed here overnight.
AULD BRIG
Spanning the river in town is the 13th-century stone bridge, a historical monument. Joined 100 yards downstream in 1788 by the new brig, both bridges feature in Robert Burns’ poem The Brigs O’Ayr.
AULD KIRK OF AYR
One of the most popular places to visit in Ayr is this 16th-century church were Robert Burns was baptised. Although it’s only open to visitors every Saturday morning (10am-noon) during July and August, it is a quiet spot for a wander.
The cemetery overlooks the river and is rather atmospheric.
Location: Blackfriars Walk
5. STROLL AROUND DEAN CASTLE COUNTRY PARK
Visiting Dean Castle Country Park on the outskirts of Kilmarnock, is one of the best free things to do in Ayrshire. Originally called Kilmarnock Castle, and home of the clan Boyd, the castle sits in a 200 acre country park.
The 14th-century castle has been recently renovated. Inside, learn about the castle’s rich, and at times, bloody history. View arms collections and musical instruments before exploring the outdoors.
The tranquil park grounds feature formal areas of of ornamental pines and lime trees. Native woodland is crisscrossed with trails, and is a peaceful place to wander.
Keep a look out for the delightful herd of fallow deer.
Work is ongoing for the park to become a Rare Breeds Centre, with Bagot goats, Gloucester Old Spot pigs, and other traditional British farm animals.
Grab a trail map from the visitor centre and after a walk, relax in the treehouse cafe.
Location: Dean Road, Kilmarnock KA3 1XB | Official Site: Check ahead for opening times.
6. TAKE A FERRY TO THE ISLE OF ARRAN
While there are plenty of places to visit in Ayrshire, sitting just off the coast is the pretty island of Arran. Often called “Scotland in Miniature”, Arran boasts its own brewery, distillery and castle.
CalMac Ferries run a service from Ardrossan to Brodick in an hour, leaving you plenty of time to explore.
- Brodick Castle has a hunting gallery, 19th-century wooden furniture, and extensive grounds.
- Isle of Arran Distillery (Lohranza) offers guided tours and whisky tasting.
- Climb to the top of Goat Fell, the highest point on the island (874m), which is an 8 mile return hike.
- The Machrie Moor Stone Circles – on the west side of Arran are an impressive collection of seven stones to explore.
7. DISCOVER THE RUIN OF CROSSRAGUEL ABBEY
I’ve included Crossraguel Abbey in the list of Ayrshire things to do despite only the abbey grounds being currently accessible.
This former place of worship, built in the 13th-century, was severely damaged in the Wars of Independence. The ruin is remarkably complete, with several sections to explore.
- Chapter House with its arched seat and simple benches.
- The architectural details in the choir.
- Monks church, cloister and dovecot, or pigeon tower.
Location: By the A77, between the towns of Maybole and Kirkoswald | Find out more on the official website.
8. CHECK OUT THE SCOTTISH MARITIME MUSEUM
Are you a boat lover? One of the “off the beaten track” things to do in Ayrshire, is a visit to this maritime museum.
Inside the massive hanger, former Linthouse shipyard building, is a lot to see and do, including:
- Learn about the maritime history of Irvine, once west Scotland’s busiest port, and the individual shipbuilders.
- View historic vessels and discover the life of a shipyard worker.
- There are plenty of interactive games and trails.
The museum is one of the popular things to do in Irvine Scotland. Refuel at the onsite cafe, or grab a bite to eat in the character-full Ship Inn, on Harbour Road.
9. WALK THE AYRSHIRE COASTAL PATH
Lace up your walking boots and explore the Ayrshire coast on foot. The coast path links major villages and towns including Girvan, Dunure, Ayr, Troon, Irvine, and Largs.
The 100 miles of stunning coastline runs alongside sandy beaches for most of its length, and can be walked in sections.
Walkers are rewarded with superb vistas, including the outline of Ailsa Craig, and the Isle of Arran.
You can check out the route on the official website, which outlines the many features along the way, together with details of any path changes or updates.
10. HAVE FUN AT HEADS OF AYR FARM
Owned by the Rankin family, what began as a sheep farm with pets for their children, is now a popular animal park. One of the best things to do in Ayr for families, kids will love the animals, and range of activities available.
From sandpits, jumping pillows, and four large themed play areas, to trampolines and much more.
You can meet farmyard favourites such as pigs, Llamas and donkeys. Or more exotic animals including camels, emus, ruffed lemurs, and wallabies.
If you are looking for things to do in Ayrshire for adults and kids, book a trip to this attraction for a day of fun.
Location: Dunure Road, Alloway by Ayr | Buy tickets and check opening times on the official site.
WHERE TO STAY IN AYRSHIRE
If you plan on camping in Ayrshire, why not stay on a site right in the grounds of Culzean Castle. With magnificent views across to Arran, good facilities, and sunsets to die for, what’s not to like.
Some of the best hotels in Ayrshire include, Culzean Castle, Glenapp Castle, Trump Turnberry (has one of the areas best golf courses), Dumfries House Lodge, and Marine Troon.
Prefer something more unique and simple, yet stylish? Check out Savoy Park Hotel, The Mariners, and Kintyre Apartment.
HOW AND WHEN TO VISIT AYRSHIRE
The easiest way for visiting North and South Ayrshire is by car. Most things to do in Ayrshire can be reached from Glasgow and Dumfries.
Scottish weather can be changeable and unpredictable at any time of the year. While summer is peak visiting time, spring and autumn are a great time to explore the area.
While Ayrshire is a region often overlooked, it’s proximity to Glasgow makes it easy to add to your Scotland Road Trip.
We hope this article has encouraged you to visit Ayrshire. As always, if you have any questions or tips of your own to share, please leave a comment below.
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