Born January 25, 1759; Robbie Burns entered the world in the town of Alloway, just a few miles down the road from Ayr. No one had any inkling that this child would grow up to make such a mark on the world of poetry. Unfortunately Scotland’s favorite son, Robbie Burns passed away at age 37. His memory is still honored more than 200 years later. One of the ways that his countrymen have honored him was the creation of the Burns National Heritage Park.

The Burns National Heritage Park allows visitors to soak up the rich and remarkable history of Robbie Burns’ life. Although the Burns family moved several times, it is the birthplace of Robbie Burns that draws am steady stream of tourists. The cottage, built by his father in 1757, was where Robbie started life. Authentically restored, the cottage is central to the Burns National Heritage Park.

In addition to the cottage, the adjacent paddock preserves some of the original plot that Robbie’s father had leased from a local landholder. One of the family’s wells is visible near Greenfield Avenue, the roadway that Robbie’s father was paid to build.

At the Visitor Center, a cutting edge laser-disc show brings to life “Tam o’Shanter”, Robbie Burn’s most beloved tale and recited at many Burns Suppers around the world. Open all year around, the Visitor Center also houses a gift shop that sells all manner of Burn’s memorabilia and a licensed restaurant where you can enjoy an authentic Scottish meal in air-conditioned comfort. A children’s area often rings with the sounds of children playing.

In the Burns Cottage Museum, you will find the manuscript of Auld Lang Syne on display. Yes, this is the original manuscript of the world’s most recognizable song. There is a sizable collection of Robbie Burns’ works and personal effects from Robbie and his family. Considered to be the world’s most important Burns’ collection, the wealth of historical information on Robbie Burns’ life is staggering.

The brig soanning the Doon River allows visitors to walk and get a glimpse into Burns’ famous Brig O’Doon. There is a marvelous collection of artistic rendering of the brig in the Burns Cottage Museum.

Perhaps the creepiest part of the Burns National Heritage Park is the walk through Auld Kirk Alloway, the cemetery where William Burns is buried. On an overcast day, among the crumbling walls, there is an unsettling feeling that overtakes visitors. Burns’ tale of the supernatural is set here and both fascinates and repels fans but still they come.

For a man that lived such a short life, Robbie Burns was able to transcend world boundaries with his poetry. Visiting the Burns National Heritage Park is an experience worth having! All this is just a scant 3 miles from Ayr.