Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
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.
Elliots - 20 Miles (32 KM)
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.
Scotts - 23 Miles (36.8 KM)
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.
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.
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 - 17.3 Miles (27.7 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
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.
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.
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. .
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
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.
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.
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.
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 - 17.6 Miles (28.2 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.
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.
Historical & Heritage Sites
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.
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.
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.
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
