Undoubtedly Ayr is an old town—the most zealous of historical researchers cannot say just how old. Its story is writ large on the pages of Scottish history. Many of its landmarks bear the indelible stamp of its antiquity. But in every other respect the Auld Toun is the modern home of a modern-minded and thriving community who are well aware of the need to keep abreast of the times, not only for their own sakes but for the benefit of the many thousands who come annually to make holiday.

World-wide fame of Ayr as the centre of the Burns Country makes the town a natural selection for the tourist’s itinerary, but the ordinary holidaymaker may not appreciate that it is, in its own right, one of Scotland’s leading holiday centres. Burns himself may have fostered misunderstanding by his writings.

Auld Ayr wham ne’er a toun surpasses
For Honest Men and Bonnie Lasses

Delving into Ayr’s past, you’ll find that the town was held by the British for a very few years (1301-1312). Although the church it was attached to was demolished, St John’s Tower was the site of the first “sitting” of Parliament of Scotland led by in 1315 and still stands. This “sitting” of the Parliament of Scotland led by Robert the Bruce occurred 13 years before he was declared King of Scotland.

Examples of 15th century construction exist to this day. Image the solid construction that feat would take. A few such examples are the Tolbooth, Louden Hall and the Auld Brig, now a pedestrian walkway. The port remained a busy place and the town thrived.

In 1654 Oliver Cromwell built a citadel on the site of the original castle and much of the citadel’s wall is still visible. The 1700’s brought the New Bridge that replaced Auld Brig as the main crossing. Unfortunately that washed away in flooding in the 19th century and had to be rebuilt. So many parts of Ayr’s long history remain an integral part of the town and are celebrated proudly.

It is fitting that the birthplace of John Loudon McAdam, engineer and renowned road innovator, should be home to such beautiful bridge construction. The Borderline Theatre, the County Building, Sandgate and the Town Hall Spire are all excellent examples of architecture and construction from a day gone by.

The water, the beaches, the buildings, the history, the countryside, and so much more draw tourists to Ayr. There are a seemingly endless number of things to do and see around Ayr. Relax on the beach, explore the countryside, or slip over to Prestwick to enjoy a round of golf on one of Prestwick’s golf courses, including the world famous home of the British Open, the Prestwick Golf Club. A vacation in Ayr will provide you with wonderful memories for years.