Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
The Smithy specialises in home cooked food using fresh local produce. Their home baking includes a variety of homemade cakes, tray bakes with fruit, plain and cheese scones made fresh daily, as well as homemade soups with a difference.
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.
A wonderful restaurant in the centre of the beautiful Port William. Extremely popular with locals and tourists alike; booking is strongly recommended. Choose from their wide ranging menu, anything from haggis, steak and gammon to prawns, calamari and the catch of the day.
A cosy informal restaurant whose name aptly reflects the impressive castle views which it enjoys. The food is imaginative and personally prepared by the chef proprietor, and served by friendly staff in an unobtrusive manner.
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.
Fun Days Out
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.
LA Bowl - 27.6 Miles (44.2 KM)
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.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
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.
Golf & Sports
You can enjoy a great family activity day at GSC, a multi-activity outdoor centre located in south-west Scotland on the beautiful shores of Loch Ken. Activities might include sailing, windsurfing, power boating, kayaking, canoeing, archery, quad biking, mountain biking and climbing.
Nature Reserves
A fascinating wildlife park in a lovely setting of mixed woodland. Conservation of threatened and endangered species is the principle focus of this impressive park, protecting as they do nearly 150 animals. Spend some time in the remarkable enclosures and learn about their habitats.
Gardens & Woodlands
A beautiful park, in the heart of Galloway Forest. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around this beautiful area or simply sit with a good book and a picnic soaking up the stunning scenery. Alternatively spend some time at the excellent visitor centre and pop in for a warm beverage in the tea room.
Logan lies at the South-Western tip of Scotland, and it is unrivalled as the country's most exotic garden. This is a showcase for some truly remarkable flowers.
Local Attractions
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.
The Cocoabean Company is a fun day for all, everyone is assured a fantastic time and will leave wanting to return again and again. At this interactive factory tour you will be given a guided tour and shown how chocolate is made, as well as getting to make your own chocolate and then eating it, you get to taste lots of yummy chocolate as you walk around, and keep your apron. The guides are friendly and informative and are very good at keeping the smaller ones entertained. You can easily pass a day here with the tour and other amenities There is a great outside area with fort and pirate ship that is complete with slides and a play area, or you can pan for gold. In addition there is an indoor soft play area which, is quite large covering many levels and with tunnels and slides for lots of enjoyment. The Cafe is lovely with a great selection of food and drink and all at reasonable prices and the service is very good. The facilities are very clean here and well maintained. You are also able to take a picnic here. There is a factory gift shop where you can buy some delicious treats before leaving. A visit to the Cocoabean Company will assure everyone a great time and you will be very popular with the all the children. A great attraction for all ages, there is something for everyone here. Prices are very reasonable and if visiting with children you only pay for them.
The Scottish Showcase Gallery is in a picturesque spot by the harbour in Kirkcudbright, or "Artist's Town" as it is also known owing to its position on Scotland's breathtaking south west coast. This characteristic building offers an exciting and stylish gallery you will find a find collection of works from artists from all over the country. They focus mainly on the four art schools, colourist artists, atmospheric artists, stylised artists and traditional artists. Throughout the year the gallery focuses on solo artists work and these change on the last Friday of each month, so there is always something new on display here. The atmosphere is relaxed and serene providing the perfect place to view and appreciate the art on display. A lovely gallery with some lovely works, well worth a visit, if just to see the high quality of work on show here.
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.
Craft Daft - 27.9 Miles (44.6 KM)
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.
Historical & Heritage Sites
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.
A fascinating priory to visit, with an extremely long and complex history. Built, re-built, restored, converted and added to over almost sixteen centuries, this age old site has seen its share of worship and war and is well worth a visit. The excellent visitor centre provides information on the architecture, history and religion of the priory over the years.
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.
Broughton House is a lovely 18th century Georgian house that can be found in the centre of Kirkcudbright, it is a true cultural treasure. It was the former home of Scottish painter E A Hornel and the property has been lovingly restored and recreated to how it would have been during his time here. It is a living museum dedicated to the life and works of this talented painter, it shows the alterations he made to the property, and is full of his paintings and those of his colleagues. In addition there is his extensive library that houses one of the world's largest compilations of works by Robert Burns. The house is very interesting from the displays, furniture and art. Downstairs is his studio as well as the heart of the house where the cook and servants ran the house from. However, the big surprise in this house is outside, the stunning gardens back on to the River Dee and are largely inspired by Hornel's fondness of Japan, the garden is full of colour and is a delightful blend of Eastern and Western horticulture, and provide a lovely haven to explore and pretty views of the sea estuary. The guides are friendly and informative and will let you know all about the property and its past owner. Broughton House is highly recommended and you should certainly take the time to see this stunning living museum if visiting the area.
The Stewartry Museum was first established in 1879 but as it grew it was necessary to move it to new premises in 1893, to hold the growing collections, a special building was constructed for this purpose and it is here that the museum remains to this day. It has undergone improvements and enhancements over the years but still contains its genuine Victorian charm. It is an intimate museum and within you will find a collection that predominantly relates to the social and natural history of the Stewartry or Kirkcudbrightshire as it is also referred to, you will get to learn about the growth and development of the town during your time here. In the permanent collection there is the "Siller Gun", Britain earliest surviving sporting trophy. Also on display are works by local artists. Other items on display include, weapons and tools, rocks and fossils, preserved animals as well as a video relating to the local area. The cases are well laid out and have lots of information relating to the displays and exhibits. It is an interesting and varied museum with lots to see that will entertain all ages. There are activity sheets to occupy the children. The Stewartry Museum is free of charge and open throughout the year, it is located on the first floor and can be accessed by stairs so may not be suitable for all visitors. The Stewartry Museum has an eclectic and varied collection and is certainly worth a visit, has lots to see but won't take a full day, so if in the area stop by and see what is on show.
