Ayrshire & Arran

On Scotland’s south-west coast, Ayrshire looks across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran. Discover Burns Country, legendary golf links, Culzean Castle and local seafood and produce. Across the water, climb Goatfell, spot wildlife and explore Arran’s UNESCO Global Geopark, where dramatic mountains, sheltered bays, ancient stones and island whisky earn it the nickname of ‘Scotland in miniature’. 

Delightful at all times is Arran.

Anonymous medieval Irish poem

From harbour towns and seaside resorts to island villages surrounded by mountains and sea, find the perfect base for exploring Ayrshire & Arran. 

Ayr 

Stroll along the wide Victorian esplanade, browse the town’s shops and restaurants or experience the thrills of Ayr Racecourse. Nearby Alloway brings the world of Robert Burns to life through Burns Cottage, the Brig o’ Doon, Auld Alloway Kirk and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. 

Uncover Ayr

Brodick 

Arrive in Arran’s main village to find cafés, independent shops and a sweeping bay framed by mountains. Step back in time to a more refined age at Brodick Castle with its formal gardens, waterfalls and Bavarian summerhouse, or use the village as a starting point for journeying through the island’s UNESCO Global Geopark. 

Adventure to Brodick

Girvan 

Wander along the sandy beach and traditional fishing harbour with the unmistakable hump of Ailsa Craig on the horizon. Girvan makes a useful base for exploring Carrick, joining the Ayrshire Coastal Path and discovering the Southern Ayrshire reaches of Scotland’s first UNESCO Biosphere. 

Explore Girvan

Irvine 

Uncover Scotland’s shipbuilding story among historic vessels at the Scottish Maritime Museum, then see contemporary exhibitions and performances at Harbour Arts Centre. Follow the riverside path towards Irvine Beach Park or experience the pageantry and traditions of the historic Marymass Festival held every August. 

Visit Irvine

Follow in Burns’ footsteps through Alloway, meet contemporary makers in Scotland’s Craft Town and journey around Arran between castles, standing stones and distilleries. Whether travelling by car, setting out on foot or venturing beneath the waves, these routes reveal the stories, landscapes and creative spirit of Ayrshire & Arran. 

Take the scenic route with the Ayrshire Coastal Path 

The Ayrshire Coastal Path stretches for 106 miles along Scotland’s south west coast, encapsulating some of the best coastline in the British Isles. This long distance route takes you from Glenapp in the south to Skelmorlie in the north and can be split up into various shorter sections if you’ve just got time for a morning or afternoon wander. Along the way you can enjoy quaint towns, historic sites, ancient castles, and other local gems.

Follow the route

Snorkle beneath the waves 

Uncover kelp forests, rocky reefs and sheltered bays on self-led trails created by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Arran’s six sites include Lamlash, Whiting Bay, Kildonan and Lochranza, while the South Ayrshire trail links Lendalfoot, Girvan, Maidens, Culzean, Dunure and Troon. Always check the individual site guidance, tides and safety advice before entering the water. 

Head out for a dive

Follow the Alloway Burns’ Trail 

Follow a 3.75-mile circular trail through the village where Robert Burns was born. Walk from Burns Cottage along Poet’s Path to the birthplace museum, Auld Alloway Kirk and Burns Monument. Cross the Brig o’ Doon, immortalised in Tam o’ Shanter, before continuing through the woodland and parkland of Rozelle Estate. 

Discover the trail

Arran’s Food Journey 

From Ayrshire beef, salt-aged steaks, and Dunlop cheese in its historic birthplace, to tantalisingly fresh seafood, you’re in for a treat with the food & drink on offer here. Drop by the Arran Cheese Shop for island-made cheddar, the Arran Ice Cream for artisanal small-batch flavours, and don’t neglect the Arran Whisky Trail, where distilleries and tasting rooms showcase the island’s spirit. 

Get your tastebuds tingling

Get creative in Scotland’s Craft Town 

Spend a creative day in West Kilbride, Scotland’s only designated Craft Town. See contemporary exhibitions and browse work by Scottish makers at the Barony Centre, then take in the independent studios dotted around the village specialising in textiles, jewellery, ceramics and glass. 

Explore West Kilbride: Scotland's Craft Town