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Check AvailabilityHarbour Pointe is a 2 bedroom self catering holiday accommodation that sleeps 4 and is located in Ayr, Scotland. This property does not allow pets. Local to Tarbolton, Rankinston, Ochiltree, Dalrymple, Mauchline
Situated near restaurants, shops and the sandy beach of Ayr, this town centre apartment is an ideal holiday base for exploring the beautiful countryside. Harbour Pointe is situated in a picturesque riverside location with stunning sea views. Culzean Castle with its country park is a popular tourist attraction with wooded trails passing along the beach. Ayrshire offers villages, beaches and rocky coves to explore with the Ayrshire Coastal Path spanning 100 miles. Inland there is walking, cycling, castles and gardens, riding, fishing, racing and a choice of golf courses, including Turnberry. Day trips to Ireland from Stranraer and Troon, Glasgow and Edinburgh within easy reach. Shop, pub and restaurant 200 yards.
Lift to entrance. All on fourth floor: Living room. Kitchen. 2 bedrooms: 1 double with en-suite shower room and toilet, 1 twin. Bathroom with toilet. Laminate floors throughout.
Gas CH, elec, bed linen and towels included. Highchair on request. DVD. CD. Electric Cooker. Microwave. Washer/dryer. Dishwasher. Fridge Freezer. Wi-fi. Tel-honesty box. Parking (1 car). No smoking. Note: Sea is 10 yards away.
Elliots has a unique blend of cosmopolitan style and laid-back coastal charm. With a restaurant, terrace and Elliots Bar, there is something for everyone.
With a reputation as one of Scotland?s finest restaurants, Enterkine will provide an exceptional culinary experience. The food is creative and offers a taste of Scotland at its best, whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Situated at Troon Yacht Haven, Scotts is a stunning bar and restaurant which looks out towards the picturesque Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig. Scotts offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in a luxurious, comfortable interior that complements the panoramic view.
This is a friendly log cabin style coffee shop situated in open countryside. Most of the food is home made and they specialise in ice cream, which is made on their dairy farm. Also on the menu is a delicious range of savoury food.
This inn is a favourite with families and tourists and is friendly and informal with a tranquil atmosphere. House specialties include locally reared sirloin steaks.
Popular with locals and seafood enthusiasts, Fin's specialties include lobster, oysters, scallops, home-smoked salmon and homely puddings. Housed in a converted barn with a conservatory extension, it's lively, friendly and informal.
LA Bowl is a family run entertainment venue in Ayr, it has lots to keep everyone entertained, and will not disappoint. It is one of Scotland's premier bowling centres in addition to having a pool, laser quest, amusements, diner and fully licensed bar. It is open each day from 10.00am until late and offers a range of packages and offers if you want to do more than one activity during your visit. The staff here are friendly and helpful and the place is well maintained and kept clean, there is also a vibrant and bustling atmosphere here. The cafe serves a good selection of drinks and hot food and the prices are reasonable. If you are looking for a venue that is fun and will appeal to the whole family then you don't need to look any further. LA Bowl ticks all the boxes for a great time, highly recommended.
There are almost 50 different types of animal, each with its own particular charm. Meet them, touch them, feed them. And you could play all day at the Farm Park, it's packed with fantastic activities.
There's so much to see and do — from rollercoasters and jammy dodgems, to pirate swing boats and log flumes, not to mention some unusual and friendly animals up on 'McDougals' Rare Breeds Farm as well as exciting Birds of Prey demonstrations.
The Playbarn is located at Auchrannie Resort in Brodick, it offers a fun and safe environment for young children to play in. The indoor soft play area is set out over three levels, and there is also a teen zone, internet area, big screen TV, library and WI-FI as well as an outdoor play area and picnic area. The Trough serves a good selection of premium beverages and snacks that are reasonably priced, and offers a comfortable place to sit and observe the children playing. The Playbarn is clean and well maintained and the facilities are very good. The area is well supervised and the staff are friendly and helpful. The Playbarn offers lots to keep young visitors entertained in a clean and safe environment and the prices are very reasonable too.
Glasgow Delta Force Paintball offers fast paced fun for everyone! Test your mettle by exploring the battlefield without being discovered by the opposing team. Paintball days are offered as well as services for parties and youth groups. Delta Force even caters to the youngest paintball soldiers, with mini-paintball for 8 to 10 year olds.
Whether you are bringing along 10 people or 100, Geronimo Sailing is ready to show you the time of your lives! Hit the waves with one of the sailing packages currently offered. Serious boatsmen can join the Geronimo Yacht Club which claims to be one of the most innovative and modern of its kind!
Lang Scots Mile was devised in 2002 on the seafront of Ayr to honour the town's historical links with Burns in addition to promoting healthy exercise. The walk is about one mile in length and stretches from the car park in Miller's Folly on Cromwell's Fort to Clackburn Car Park and the walk is completely flat and therefore, suitable for all abilities. The scenic walk takes in amazing seacoast views out over the Firth of Clyde to Arran, Kintyre and the Cumbraes and in the evening there are amazing sunsets to be seen over the Isle of Arran. Located half way along the route is a children's play area, making a suitable stop with young children. It is tranquil walk and a great way to unwind. You can extend the walk to the south along the dunes to the river Doon. The area is well maintained and there are lots of benches along the way if you want to just stop and admire the views. It is a popular walk and does get busy but nevertheless a pleasant walk anytime of the day.
Western Gailes Golf Club is a challenging links golf course, in a stunning location along the coastline and has spectacular scenery. The club has a long standing history dating back to 1897 and offers golfers a mixture of old and new, it is a club that honours traditions. The course itself offers a number of challenges, with natural hazards, blind shots, a continuos breeze off the Firth of Clyde, gorse bushes, beach and a burn that runs through three holes. It is a highly regarded course, well laid out and attracts many golfers from all over to play its pristine fairways and greens, that are beautifully maintained and kept. The staff too are superb from the moment you arrive till you leave you are well looked after and made to feel so welcome. The clubhouse is perfect, has great facilities, amazing views of the Firth of Clyde, nearby Isle of Arran and far beyond and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the menu is extensive and there is lots to choose from, the food is very good and value for money, lunch is generally included with your round of golf. There are other more prestigious courses close by but, Western Gailes Golf Club offers everything you need for a fantastic and exciting game of golf with the most amazing scenery too.
Gailes Links is a highly regarded and recognised world championship links course. It has an ideal position on the west coast of Scotland allowing year round golf in a stunning setting. It has been the home of a number of championship tournaments and as you would expect the course is first class. This immaculate course is a traditional links course, there are hidden pot bunkers to be avoided at all costs, natural hazards in the form of gorse and heather bushes and lots more challenges, it will accommodate all levels of player. The clubhouse is full of tradition and has a lovely warm and inviting atmosphere, the surroundings are comfortable and the menu is varied with lots to choose from and great value for money. Throughout you will find the staff to be courteous, friendly and professional enhancing your overall experience here. Gailes Links offers players a fantastic game of golf on a premier course, come see for yourself how great this club is.
Dundonald Links is relatively new on the golf scene but has already firmly established itself a leading course here in Scotland. It is a modern day classic links course and offers much enjoyment and plenty of challenges to all levels of golfers. In a beautiful setting along the coastline, you are afforded wonderful scenery and views and lots of natural hazards, the bunkers are difficult, and the greens quick and true. The overall course is beautifully kept and maintained and has a great layout. There is a clubhouse that has all amenities, it has a nice atmosphere, warm and welcoming and the choice and standard of food is high. The staff throughout were faultless, friendly, professional and extremely helpful. Dundonald Links might not have the glamour of other clubs but it provides a great course for an enjoyable game of golf, you can't complain about that. .
Energetic paintballing fun in over 50 acres of mixed woodland situated just 20 minutes south of Glasgow. The games are mission based and get progressively harder. These include the taking back of a VC village, landing with your comrades on D Day, protecting your VIP at Checkpoint Charlie and securing a crash sight in Blackhawk Down.
Learn to fly on the beautiful Isle of Arran, 'Scotland in miniature'. Flying Fever Paragliding School has operated for over ten years, teaching on Arran during the summer months. There are 30 + flying sites taking all wind directions, and suitable for beginners and experts alike.
Based at Prestwick Airport, Mountain and Glen offers a range of carefully created adventures enabling anyone and everyone to experience the outdoors in a safe but challenging environment.
Pollock Golf Club has a long and distinguished history and is conveniently located near to Glasgow city centre in the grounds of the lovely Pollock Estate. It is a first class parkland course with loads of natural beauty and natural hazards to enhance your game of golf. The course is beautiful and expertly maintained, it holds many challenges and appeals to both novice and seasoned golfers. The staff here are tremendous too, they are professional and helpful and the club has a welcoming and amiable ambience. They strive to ensure that all guests have a enjoyable visit. The clubhouse is excellent, lovely atmosphere and staff, the food is great too as good as any top restaurant and excellent value too. If you are looking to play golf in Glasgow then this course should not be missed.
East Renfrewshire Golf Club is a picturesque course amongst some of the most amazing scenery, it is located close to Glasgow city, being only a short drive away. It is a true parkland course with lots of natural hazards, with holes found around hills and through trees, it has many challenges even for the more experienced golfers, every hole is different and be prepared to use all your clubs. The course is tough and hilly so be warned. Overall the greens and the course are well maintained and make it a pleasure to play. The staff from the office, pro shop and clubhouse are great too, professional, jovial and helpful. The clubhouse has great facilities, a varied menu and a warm and amiable atmosphere. The costs here are very reasonable considering the quality of the course, amazing views and facilities, so if looking to play a round in Glasgow don't miss this East Renfrewshire Golf Club.
A total of seven breathtaking golf courses reside on the gorgeous island of Arran. Visitors can take their pick as they test their skills with a challenging game in one of the most beautiful places in the world. There are numerous places to enjoy a bite to eat nearby so you can make it a full day of invigorating competition and relaxation.
Cowglen Golf Club is in close proximity to Glasgow city centre and is a long established course. This parkland course is not a particularly long course at 6105 yards but, it has interesting and varied holes each with their own challenges. The quality of the course and greens is very good and well maintained making for a great game of golf. The staff here are very professional and friendly and extend a warm and hospitable welcome that adds to the overall experience at Cowglen. In addition to the course there is a substantial practise area that accommodates all kinds of shots and there is a lovely clubhouse with superb facilities, the menu here has a nice selection of dishes, sandwiches etc., and the food is very good and excellent value. Cowglen Golf Course welcomes all golfers and will ensure that all players have an enjoyable experience here.
Eglinton Country Park offers a place of peace and tranquillity amongst beautiful grounds, regardless of the season. This lovely country park offers a range of activities for everyone to enjoy from, sedate county walks, play and picnic areas, horse riding, cycling, wildlife watching or fishing at the lochside. The park is beautifully maintained by the Countryside Rangers and they host a variety of events throughout the year to appeal to all ages, including conservation days, organised walks, willow weaving, nature based activities, an annual art exhibition and much more. The landscape is varied, with formal gardens, riverside, woodland, parkland and farmland so lots to see whilst here. There are specific trails and routes for walks, cycling and pony trekking. The castle ruins are nice and younger visitors like to explore and run about here. There is a lovely cafe that offers a nice place to relax with a tasty snack and drink, prices are reasonable and they have a good selection. Eglinton Country Park offers something for all ages, or just the opportunity to escape for some peace in beautiful surroundings, you will be not be disappointed.
Home to the Earls of Glasgow, Kelburn is a fun day out for the whole family with a working pottery, falconry, assault course and a secret forest.
Pollok Country Park is the biggest park and the sole Country park within Glasgow, gifted to the city by the Maxwell family back in 1966, the family is thought to have had an ancestral home home here for more than seven centuries. The considerable grounds offer woodlands, gardens, a rich rural history and a place of peace and tranquillity to the locals and visitors to the area. The park itself is open throughout the year but certain amenities have specific opening times. In total the park covers 361 acres that incorporates a Walled Garden, that has many appealing features to gardeners from the mature yew hedges to the seasonal bedding and glasshouses. The Woodland Garden has a delightful woodland walk that takes in the fine collection of Rhododendrons favoured by Sir John Stirling Maxwell. Other areas of interest within the park include the old stable courtyard and sawmill, play park, the Glasgow mountain bike circuit, Highland cattle and Clydesdale Horses, riverside walks, opportunity to feed the ducks, picnic areas and much more. Throughout the year a large number of events take place including, the annual Pollock Family Fun Day, City of Glasgow International Highland Cattle Show and the Park Ranger Service runs events like Pond Dipping, Wildflower Painting, Woodland Fair and Ghostly Goings On. There is so much to Pollock Country Park and it should be a place to see while you are in Glasgow, you never know what might be taking place here otherwise you can just enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the park, a great day out for all ages.
Ardencraig Gardens are located close to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute. The current gardens were previously part of the larger layout devised by Percy Cane for the owners of nearby Ardencraig House. Ardencraig Gardens are essentially a walled garden and were attained by Rothesay Town council in 1970 with the purpose of being used to forge a propagation, education and show garden. The gardens are well laid out and are beautifully maintained and are home to a lovely selection of native and exotic plants, flowers, shrubs and trees. When in bloom the gardens are a riot of colour and the air around is full of delicious fragrances. Within the glasshouses you will find a range of more exotic plant species such as orchids and cactus. Across from the gardens is a tearoom as well as a number of aviaries housing a selection of exotic bird species together with information about their natural habitat. Some of the plants on display are for sale. The gardens are open throughout the year and there is no charge for entry but they do accept donations. Ardencraig Gardens are charming and beautiful with a lovely tranquil atmosphere and offer something for all ages, children will love the aviary, the gardens are well worth a visit especially on a nice day.
Enjoy a day with a difference — Craft Daft have over 30 different crafts on a 'Have a go' basis. If they find a new craft and it's feasible to offer it in the studios, then they do.
Ayr Gaiety Theatre is found in a lovely art deco style building and provides a great venue for theatre goers to see and enjoy some of the best playwrights and performers in the UK demonstrate their talents on stage. It has recently underwent improvements and this lovely theatre has many facilities including, the main theatre, studio theatre and Stage Door cafe, bar and restaurant. It is an integral part of the cultural community here in Ayr and has a varied and interesting programme of events including, musicals, plays, concerts, music recitals, opera, ballet, comedy and much more. The main theatre is comfortable with good seating and views of the stage and the acoustics are also good. There is a warm and welcoming atmosphere and staff are really nice too friendly and helpful and enhance your visit here. Ayr Gaiety Theatre offers a wonderful intimate venue to see some great talent, if you get the opportunity to see a performance here don't hesitate, you will be impressed by the experience.
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory, is located on a fabulous hilltop setting at the edge of the Galloway Forest Park. It is located down a long bumpy dark road so care is needed when driving. Its location was chosen as it is under some of the darkest skies in Ireland offering the best viewing opportunities. They offer tours of the observatory and have resident astronomers who are knowledgeable, passionate and animated who give these tours, they also involve video presentations. then you go to the observatory deck where the telescopes are located. On the viewing deck the guide points out the different stars and constellations. In addition they organise a range of events, activities and sessions that involve special guest speakers and cover a range of topics throughout the year, full details are available on the website. There is an entry charge but it is very reasonable and you must book in advance as numbers are limited. It is not the easiest places to find although if you follow the directions the Observatory gives then you should not have any difficulties. There are some astronomy related souvenirs on sale here. Also if you are a keen amateur astronomer you can rent the equipment and use the facilities. The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is very informative and educational and will delight those who have an interest in astronomy although is intriguing even if you don't have an interest, you can't help but be impressed by what you are shown and told here, highly recommended. A must if you are in the area.
Flying Fever Paragliding School are located on the Isle of Arran and have been in business here for more than twenty years. They offer courses in training for a solo paragliding flight or a tandem flight with an instructor. The island has more than thirty flying sites that incorporate all wind directions making it ideal for this activity. Paragliding is exhilarating with a large injection of adrenalin and gives the ultimate buzz. They are open daily depending on the weather March through to September. Instructors are all highly trained and qualified. Safety is paramount and all equipment is regularly tested and is well maintained. You commence training on a gentle slope and you gradually progress to higher ground as you gain confidence and competence. The instructors are lovely you will find them to be very friendly, through and really patient as well as encouraging and they will put you at ease if at all nervous. The feeling when you leave the ground and have the wind in your face as you glide over the glens and countryside is priceless, a truly exhilarating and memorable experience. Flying Fever Paragliding School are professional and well organised, they can arrange to pick you up and drop you off from where you are staying, you will feel very safe and comfortable in their capable hands, highly recommended.
Arran Adventure Company are located on the beautiful Isle of Arran in Brodick, amongst some of the most spectacular countryside and scenery. They offer a range of fun and exciting outdoor pursuits aimed at all ages and abilities. You can choose from abseiling, archery, mountain biking, climbing, gorge walking, sea kayaking and segway. There is an activity to suit everyone. They are open throughout the year for mountain bike hire but, all other activities are only available during the period from Easter to October. Arran Adventure Company are professional and all activities are well organised with safety paramount, all equipment is provided, it is well maintained and all top quality. The instructors are excellent, friendly, helpful and encouraging, they provide clear instructions on what to do and are always on hand if needed. If hiring bikes there are maps available and they will advise on the best route to suit your group. The scenery around is beautiful with lots of places to stop and enjoy, so take along a camera. If you are looking for something fun and exciting to do on the island look no further than Arran Adventure Company, they are fantastic, provide a great range of activities that are perfectly balanced with the right measure of safety and fun and the instructors are just brilliant, and is excellent value for money too, highly recommended.
Auchrannie Leisure Centre offers a great choice of leisure facilities within its comfortable and modern complex, it has a lovely welcoming reception area. The Spa Resort is modern and stylish and is open to both residents and non residents of the Auchrannie Resort. Full details of opening times and prices are available on their website. Within the resort there are many amenities including two indoor swimming pool, as well as steam rooms, a sanarium and saunas where you can unwind and relax as the heat works its magic. In addition there is a fully equipped fitness suite with state of the art equipment. Also available here in the sports hall are the options for tennis, badminton, table tennis, football, basketball and volley ball. If you are interested in fitness classes there is a large choice to choose from that cater to all ages and fitness levels. The staff throughout are brilliant really friendly and accommodating. Auchrannie Leisure Centre never feels too busy and is an excellent facility, full of modern amenities and with a good choice of restaurants to choose from.
Bubsy Equitation Centre offers an excellent experience for horse lovers. The facility provides stabling for up to 50 horses with an American barn style stables, pony barn, outside boxes and much more. Riding lessons are offered for all ages with quarter, half, one and two hour durations plus group options.
Mount Stuart is on the Isle of Bute and located about five miles from the town of Rothesay. The house dates to the nineteenth century and is a neo gothic mansion, and represents a real Victorian extravagance and is a definite display of the family's wealth at the time. It is a house that was ahead of its time and is referred to as a house of innovation. It was a technological advanced house being the first home in the world to have a heated indoor swimming pool. It was also the first house in Scotland to be purpose built with electric light, central heating, a telephone system and a Victorian passenger lift all still being in use today. This impressive and majestic home is an architectural delight with many wonderful features. It has a sumptuous, lavish and ornate decor with real attention to detail and is decorated with intricate wood carvings, antique furniture, fine paintings and woven carpets. Areas of interest in the house include the Marble Hall, Dining Room, Marble Staircase, Gallery, Lady Bute Room, Family Bedroom, Horoscope Room, Drawing Room, Purple Library and Marble Chapel. The gardens are equally intriguing and are divided into various sections including the Rock garden, Wee Garden, Kitchen Garden, Calvary Walk and Pinetums. The gardens are home to an array of native and exotic plants, flowers and trees and are beautifully planted. The woodlands and colourful landscapes compliment each other and it is a real sensual delight full of colour and fragrant aromas when in bloom. The house and gardens are open to visitors from the end of March through to early October daily, however guided tours are only available Monday, Tuesday and Thursday . You can choose to visit just the house or gardens or buy a combination ticket or even a season ticket, full details are on the website. The guides are excellenct, friendly and jovial and really knowledgeable, the tours are interesting and informative and given at just he right level to entertain everyone and interspersed with lots of stories too. Mount Stuart is one of the most extravagant, spectacular and historic houses around and has so much to see during a visit, a must when visiting the Isle of Bute or Glasgow.
Scottish Football Museum will give you a real insight into the much loved sport of football, there are in excess of 2,500 exhibits over 14 galleries, that include photos, artefacts, videos, a research section and interactive games. The audio tour has all the details and descriptions you need to get around, also the museum is excellently laid out. In the Hall of Fame you can stroll amongst Scotlands footballing greats and there is also a Stadium tour where you get to go behind the scenes, experience the Stadium as players do on a matchday, see the underground roadway, team changing rooms, indoor practise pitch, walk down the tunnel, hear the Hampden roar and ascend the stairs to the Cup Presentation Area. During the Hampden Experience, the sights, sounds and stories of this great game will be revealed to you. The staff are friendly, approachable and knowledgeable. After your tour you can visit the Museum cafe and enjoy a drink and a light snack as you take in these great surroundings. There is also a nice gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs of your time here. Regardless of age or whether you are a fan or not of football you can't help but be impressed and intrigued by all that is on show here. The Scottish Football Museum is a great day out and offers great value for money, highly recommended.
Glasgow Climbing Centre has been operational since 1994 and has proven to be extremely popular to regular climbers and those trying it for the first time. The centre is open everyday and caters to all thosed aged 7 and over and all climbing abilities. They operate a range of clubs and classes or you can just turn up. The staff here are fantastic, friendly, dedicated, patient and highly trained. Before starting an activity a safety talk is given to put you at ease and you are started on the easier climbs that have crash mats, they provide all the equipment that is in excellent condition. There are other options to choose from in addition to the rock climbing, there is abseiling and bouldering too. Don't forget to wear loose fitting and comfortable clothing to get the most out of the experience. There is a very nice cafe that looks over the climbing walls the perfect place to relax after a strenuous climb. Glasgow Climbing Centre is a fun to get active and learn a new skill in the process and what's great is most people can get involved. If you are looking for a new challenge you know where to go.
Tramway is a contemporary visual and performing arts venue that offers a wealth of different cultural experiences including both professional, touring, local and amateur productions. There is an exciting and constantly changing schedule of performances that include music performances, plays, films, dance art exhibitions and much more. This modern venue is astounding, with two performance spaces and two galleries, the main auditorium has an intimate feel, great acoustics, comfortable and roomy seating. The staff here are great, warm, friendly and most helpful. The cafe here is really nice and has the added bonus of overlooking the Hidden Gardens, they serve a nice selection of drinks and meals, in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Do take time to see what is on, there will be something to appeal to everyone and the tickets are competitively priced.
Burns National Heritage Park is located in a renovated 19th century village committed to the life and work of Scotland's most revered and well known poet, Robert Burns. The village consists of the renowned Burns Cottage where the poet was born, a collection of historic landmarks where he wrote his best works, exquisite gardens and monuments constructed in his memory as well as a modern museum that holds the world's most valuable and substantial collection of the life and works of Robert Burns. There is so much to see and do it is unlikely you will get around in one day and it is for this reason that your ticket is valid for three consecutive days. The park has a lovely serene atmosphere and you can really immerse yourself in the gorgeous gardens. There are guides who offer free tours, they are very friendly and knowledgeable and have lots of information to impart about the life and works of Burns. The museum is fantastic, with interactive exhibits, audio and light shows and exhibits of his works and many artefacts. There is a nice cafe here where you can relax in the lovely surroundings, there is a nice selection of goods and all reasonably priced. There are a number of events that are operated at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum throughout the year so if you are thinking of going, do check to see what is on. Robert Burns National Park offers a great day out for all, there are many areas of interest so will appeal to all ages and therefore, makes for a great family day out. Even if you are not a Robert Burns fan you cannot help but be impressed and enjoy the experience, highly recommended.
See some of the best views in Ayrshire from this magnificent castle. After a ten year restoration project it has to be one of the best attractions in the area.
The Scottish Industrial Railway Centre is voluntary run organisation that was established in 1974 to protect and preserve the industrial railway heritage here in Scotland. You will find this visitor attraction in the Ayrshires Doon valley between Patna and Dalmellington, please be aware before visiting that this centre is a work in progress and is continually improving. The centre is only open on certain Sundays in the Summer and at this time you can take a ride aboard one their carriages being driven by an industrial steam locomotives, the ride is about a quarter of a mile long and you can ride as often as you like. In addition there is an interesting industrial museum dedicated to all there is about this great age of transport and see the miniature railway. The museum itself is fascinating and authentic with lots of industrial life and loads of trains in differing stages of renovation. The staff are dedicated and enthusiastic and this shines through, they are more than happy to stop and answer any questions you may have. There is a nice cafe and shop where you can stop for a drink and snack in warm and cosy surroundings and lots of railway memorabilia on display. Even if you are not a railway enthusiast you will enjoy this attraction just bear in mind it is not as sleek as a normal museum but nevertheless still an interesting and informative day out that will appeal to all ages.
Culzean Castle and Country Park is a stunning property that is operated by the National Trust, it is on an impressive position on a clifftop setting, with the most amazing views, it is set amongst gorgeous grounds and it is not difficult to see why it is one of Scotland's most popular visitor attractions. The grandiose castle dates to the 18th century and is a fine example of Robert Adam architecture, it has an interesting and varied history and is surrounded by the magnificent Culzean Country Park. These extensive grounds include dense woodlands, landscaped gardens, Orangery, Swan pond and playground and rugged coastline. The castle is superb with so many stunning rooms that are brimming with so many treasures including, armoury, lovely paintings, ornaments, antique furniture and fine tapestries. As you walk around at your own leisure, you will find friendly staff in each room to answer any questions you have, you will find them to be interesting and informative. There are guided tours available too that are highly recommended to get the most out of your visit here. There is a nice restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere, they serve a nice selection of drinks and snacks and are reasonably priced. Children will love it here from the playground to the caves under the castle to explore. Culzean Castle and Country Park should not be missed it a simply stunning historic property in beautiful grounds, great for the whole family, if in the area make time to visit you will not be disappointed.
Irvine Burns Club was founded back in 1826 by two friends of Robert Burns and a number of others, to commemorate and preserve his fine work. It was in 1962 that the Irvine Burns and Burgh Museum was opened in his former home and remains today, open four times a week from April to September and each Saturday in the winter. The club is spread over two floors, the upper floor having been adapted into a concert room and the lower level, including the library and Burns Room. Here you are able to get close to original handwritten poems and see the first edition print, original manuscripts and a Kilmarnock edition. There are lots of artefacts, paintings as well as those relating to the Royal Burgh of Irvine, including the Burgh Weights and Measures and one of the Burgh Drums. The club members are the perfect guides they are passionate, friendly and so knowledgeable, and give a fantastic tour and show on the life of Burns. It doesn't matter how little or much you know about Burns you will be surprised by what you learn and in such an interesting way. Irvine Burns Club is a great experience and should not be overlooked, call to make your appointment to see this little known gem of a museum
The Cathedral of the Isles is recognised as Britains smallest Cathedral and dates back to 1851. It was constructed by George Frederick Boyle who subsequently became the 6th Earl of Glasgow, and represents Gothic Victorian architecture. It is part of a cluster of buildings that make up two residential buildings and a collegiate church that was designed by the renowned architect William Butterfield. Music has always played an integral part in the buildings history and today it is proud to be the home to a 1867 tracker action organ as well as Erard and Lipp pianos, the 1976 "Cumbrae" harpsichord in addition to its newest addition a Bösendorfer concert grand piano. The interior is charming with a number of features including some beautiful stained glass windows, wall tiles and paintings. There are some laminated sheets that provide a brief history and information on the instruments. This delightful Cathedral is not immediately obvious but is worth the effort to find it, it is located behind the town, in a lovely woodland setting, very pretty and tranquil making for an ideal place to take a nice walk. There are some steep steps to navigate to get into the church so might not be suitable for everyone. A number of concerts and music recitals are operated throughout the year and if you get the opportunity to go along to one of these don't miss it, you will not be disappointed, the Cathedral has the most amazing resonating acoustics. They rely on the generosity of visitors to keep this wonderful building going. The Cathedral of the Isles is a gem of a building, beautiful, serene and a place of reflection and well worth a visit if you are in the region.
Relive the Viking experience in the stories told by the enthralling actors at Vikingar. Let them take you through over 500 years of turbulent history and piece together the culture, traditions and lives of this extraordinary group of settlers who changed the course of British history for ever.
Visit an ancient fort which signifies a clear example of Iron Age inhabitation. It has a dominant site on the island of Bute that is well worth a look.
Glasgow Museums Resource Centre is a bit of a hidden gem, it is here that they store everything that cannot be accommodated in the city museums. It holds an astounding 1.4 million artefacts that are stored in 17 purpose-built pods that are all climate controlled to protect the contents. Within the museum you will find areas dedicated to taxidermy, weapons, transport and technology, thousands of pieces of artworks, natural history and entomology, fossils, world cultures and much more. There are a selection of daily guided tours in addition to themed lectures, that are informative and both are run by friendly and knowledgeable staff. This vast building is an amazing place with some wonderful things to see it is like walking into a curiosity shop and discovering a secret. It is free to visit Glasgow Museums Resource Centre but you must book in advance. One visit will not be enough to see this amazing and intriguing place you will find yourself wanting to return. Also look out for the special events they run throughout the year these are great for all ages.
Holmwood House is a stunning house located in close proximity to the heart of Glasgow, this individual villa was designed by the renowned Alexander "Greek" Thomson and is considered to be his best domestic design. It was constructed in 1857/8 for a local businessman. The interior is sumptuously decorated in wood, plaster and marble, at one time it had the biggest plate glass window in Europe. There are ongoing renovations being done at the property to uncover and preserve the rooms back to their original designs. The grand exterior of the building is lovely and has beautiful architectural features, the riverside grounds are gorgeous and the little kitchen garden, is planted with an assortment of Victorian herbs, fruit and vegetables. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable and will let you know all about the history of the house and surrounding area. The tearoom serves a nice selection of snacks and hot and cold beverages, in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Although there is still lots of work to be done it is interesting to see the original features being uncovered and you get a feel of the wealth of the business men during this era.
House for an Art Lover is a beautiful building that was conceived by the highly renowned Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1901 and sits in the idyllic setting of Bellahouston Park. Visitors to the property get a real insight into Mackintosh's considerable talent not only as an architect but, as an artist, designer and as a leader of the Modern Movement. You do not have to be be an art lover to appreciate this building as it is stunning on so many levels, from the history to the design and the fact that it was built after his time from his designs for an art competition. There is a lovely restaurant in the house where you enjoy a nice selection of beverages and snacks, the food is excellent and the staff are very friendly. The guided tour is informative and interesting and lasts about 40 minutes and you get to see all the rooms, so definitely worth taking. Also take time to see the walled garden nearby they are lovely. House for an Art Lover is highly recommended if you are anywhere in the area it is most certainly worth seeing and you will be impressed by the overall experience.