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. Read the full story

If you are planning a visit to Ayr and are looking for accommodation, there are many places to stay. From B&B’s to castles and everything in between, places to stay are plentiful. Make sure to book early so that you are not disappointed. Ayr is a popular destination and rooms are often booked up.

The Coila Guest House, circa 1895, offers four spacious ensuite rooms in a lovely Victorian villa. Located in the heart of Ayr, Coila Guest House is an easy walk to many local amenities such as restaurants, shopping, the waterfront, etc. The breakfast provided to guests is excellent and guests can chose a light or hearty morning meal to start their day. If you aren’t able to leave your work behind, have no fear. The guest rooms are equipped with work areas and wireless broadband. Spend your days in Ayr enjoying the luxury of the Coila Guest House. Read the full story

When visiting Ayr, Scotland, you might want local fare at mealtime. There are many pubs and restaurants around Ayr in addition to those listed below. There is no need to dine at the same place twice because of the selection that is available. Go out and enjoy your meals!

The TreeHouse, located at 67-69 Sandgate in Ayr, has all day dining. The breakfast, lunch and supper menus will appeal to most people looking for either a quick bite or a relaxing meal. The prices are extremely reasonable with several express luncheon items priced at £4.95 and many £7.95 main courses for supper. It is doubtful that you will be disappointed after dining out at the TreeHouse. Read the full story

If you are looking for a getaway of a different sort, you may want to consider a castle holiday. You could turn your getaway into a romantic second honeymoon steeped in history. In the area around Ayr, there are several old castles that have accommodations available on their estates. Should stepping back in time appeal to you, you’ll want to make one of these castles the destination of your next vacation.

A short distance south of Ayr, Blairquhan is one such castle. During the 3-mile approach to the castle, you are transported back into time. As you pass over a William Burn bridge and see the River Girvan, the beauty will take your breath away. Some 2-miles down the approach, the castle comes into sight. Its magnificence will make you shiver in awe. As one would expect, the accommodations that are offered are spectacular. There are 8 cottages, some dating back as far as the 1500’s and several well-appointed castle bedrooms that can be booked. As well, Blairquhan offers a bed and breakfast option for parties of 8 or more. You can wander the estate to your heart’s content and lose yourself to the pastoral beauty. A lazy day of fishing can also be arranged if you are so inclined. The prices are very reasonable and the accommodations are modernized and quiet elegant. Meals are optional and, considering what you get, well priced. As well, Blairquhan offers a bed and breakfast option for parties of 8 or more. Read the full story

Scotland’s golf courses are some of the best in the world. Perhaps this is because the game of golf is credited as starting in Scotland and Scottish pride demands excellent courses for “their” game. A stone’s throw from Ayr lays Preswick, Scotland. This small town is home to an international airport and three excellent golf courses including the world-renowned Preswick Golf Club, home of the British Open. There are several golf courses within the area and these courses make Prestwick and Ayr an alluring destination to visitors. The Ayr/Prestwick area is a golfer’s paradise!

Founded in 1851, Prestwick Golf Club hosted the first Open in 1860. At the course’s inception, Tom Morris was brought in to be the Keeper of the Green, Ball and Club Maker. His son, young Tommy, grew up on the links and honed his skill at the game of golf. In later years, young Tommy went on to win an as yet unmatched 4 Opens. This course will challenge and delight you. The Pow River creates a natural obstacle as it flows through the course. The famous third hole (par 5) abruptly ends 300 yards from the tee at a deep bunker, “the Cardinal”. This hole has dashed many a golfer’s goal of winning their round. Read the full story

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. Read the full story