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

Ayr Racecourse bills itself as being the premier racecourse in Scotland. It is a very impressive racecourse with great horse races, jumping events, and outstanding facilities. Affordable entertainment at affordable pricing in a terrific facility makes a visit to Ayr Racecourse a must in every visitor’s itinerary.

In 2009, 27 events are on the schedule for Ayr Racecourse. The racecourse offers a broad selection of tickets, including memberships, which will suit everyone’s pocketbook. From the £5 Value Day to the £260 Club Season Ticket, and everything in between, offers good value for the money. Many of the prices have been held at the 2008 level. There is always a good reason to attend the races. Read the full story

The Scottish Firth of Clyde riverport town of Ayr has historical roots going back to the 13th century. To put the length of time into perspective, Ayr existed before the Magna Carta was signed and several years before the Fifth Crusade. From the castle built in 1197 to the present day, Ayr is steeped in more than 800 years of history. A Royal Burgh charter was issued to Ayr in 1205 and is the oldest surviving founding Royal Burgh charter in Scotland.

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. Read the full story