Ayrshire self catering attractions and amenities
Cottage holiday-makers will find much to enjoy in this area, renowned as the birthplace of Scotland’s great poet, Robbie Burns. Famous for its golf courses, the countryside is stunningly beautiful and its fascinating history attracts visitors from all over the world.Outdoor Activities
If you enjoy the outdoors, Ayrshire and the Isles of Arran and Cumbrae are great places to walk, cycle and ramble. There are numerous nature trails, coastal paths and waymarked country tracks. Check with Forest Enterprise on Arran for information. There is an 18 hole public golf course at Bellisle Park and south of Largs on the A78 is Kelburn Castle and Country Centre - a great place for kids with horse riding and an adventure playground. Open end of March to end of October - daily 10- 6p.m. Alternatively, enjoy a day out in the Galloway Forest Park with 3 visitor centres, shops, cafes and a play area. If you fancy a cruise, try a trip on board the Waverley, an ocean going paddle steamer. Board at Ayr harbour.
Food and drinkAyrshire is proud of the quality of its food and there is something to offer everyone whatever their taste, age or budget. Fouters in Academy Street in Alloway is a bistro restaurant offering French influenced cuisine using locally caught fish, game and beef, For a more informal meal, try Hunny Pot, a lively café in Beresford Terrace.
At Stranraer, the Pazzerello is a café-bar which doubles as a night club if you fancy an evening out. Fins Seafood Restaurant near Largs serves fish and seafood daily. And nearby Nardini’s is said to be the best café in Scotland, serving Italian food and famous for its home made icecream.
History and CultureAyrshire has an exciting and turbulent past and the region is host to many interesting visitor attractions which bring the past to life. Calzean Castle is situated on a cliff near Maybole. Designed by Robert Adam in 1777, it has a magnificent interior and contains a collection of paintings, furniture and an armoury, General Eisenhower once stayed here as a guest of the family. Open Easter to October daily 10-30-5.30p.m.
Another interesting site is the remains of 16th century Castle St John in Stranraer. Inside the medieval tower is an exhibition which traces its history. The Brig o’Doon at Ayr is a 13th century hump-backed bridge spanning the River Doon and overlooking it is the Burns Monument built in the style of a classical temple. The Burns Cottage and Museum, where the famous poet was born, contains original manuscripts, books paintings and memorabilia. Open April to October 10 - 4p.m.
