There is so much to do in and around Ayr, it is difficult to decide what to do and when. Given that the area is steeped in history, activites that take a step back in time are high on the list of “to-dos”.

Ailsa Craig

Sitting 10 miles offshore and easily seen from Girvan, a huge granite monolith is a haven for a multitude of birds. Prominently positioned on Ailsa Craig sits the ruins of a medieval tower. The rock, known by its Gaelic name is Ailsa Craig, or “Fairyland Rock” is renowned for its high quality granite. “Ailsite” is the name of the granite and is used for many things including curling stones.

Bargany Garden

Just 19 miles from Ayr on the Bargany estate are the beautiful Bargany Gardens. Although there is little left of them, the Bargany estate also contains the ruins of three castles dating back to the Kennedy’s. The current owners of Bargany are believed to be descended from the Kennedy’s.

Privately owned, these gardens are opened to the public for a few weeks in May each year. For a small fee, visitors can wander the scenic woodland walkways, take in the kitchen and rock gardens, enjoy the ecosystems of the pond, and drink in the beauty of the gorgeous displays of narcissi, azaleas, and rhododendron. Visiting these gardens is a very restful way to pass an afternoon.

Ayrshire Arts Festival and Robert Burns Festival

Early June brings 2 annual festivals that run at the same time for an entertaining 10 days. The Ayrshire Arts Festival and Robert Burns Festival promote both local performers and internationally known performers from around the globe. From theatrical performances through ballet and operas to poetry readings, folk nights and jazz sessions; there is more than enough entertainment to keep everyone occupied.

Dean Castle Country Park

A few miles north of Ayr, at Kilmarnock, is the magnificent Dean Castle Country Park is well worth visiting. The14th to 15th century castle was once the Boyd family home. Dean Castle houses an incredible display of early musical instruments from Europe, Burns manuscripts and medieval weapons, as well as other interesting items.

Scottish Maritime Museum

The Scottish Maritime Museum has three sites. There is a site located at Irvine, Bumbarton, and Braehead. Each site has a number of vessels on display including tugs, trawlers, and lifeboats. At Irvine you will find the Linthouse engine shop with its displays of model ships. Not only do you view the exhibit but also you can build a model boat and then test it. At Dumbarton, you get to step into the world of shipbuilders. Braehead introduces you to Clyde shipbuilders as well as puts you on the virtual helm of the MV Clan Alpine.

Not only do you learn but the interactive activities truly turn back the clock!