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Welcome to Ayrshire Scotland
Ancient castles, beautiful country parks and gardens, bustling market
towns and award-winning visitor attractions are all to hand and set in
awe-inspiring scenery. The spectacular granite mountains, ancient stone
circles and the sheltered waters of the Firth of Clyde act as a magnet
for walkers, cyclists, fishermen and sailing enthusiasts alike.
It is also the birthplace of world-renowned poet Robert Burns, and there
are plentiful reminders of the man and his world to explore here.
The Isle of Arran, reached by ferry from Ardrossan, is known as 'Scotland
in miniature'. A fascinating and surprising island, it has an unrivalled
range of landscapes, covering the whole spectrum of Scottish scenery in
one delightfully compact package. It is big enough to offer a bewildering
variety of activities yet small enough to retain its intimate island atmosphere.
Ayrshire is steeped in history with links to William Wallace, Robert
the Bruce and Robert Burns.
There are over 80 fine hotels throughout Ayrshire.
William Wallace 1270-1305, began his rise to fame by operating as an outlaw
in Ayrshire. Robert the Bruce 1274-1329, born at Turnberry Castle south
of Ayr, became Scotland's legendary King. Robert Burns 1759-1796, Scotland's
best known poet, was born in Alloway south of Ayr.
Places to stay around Ayrshire
There are over 40 castles throughout Ayrshire, many of which can be visited.
The three islands Ailsa Craig, Arran and Cumbrae are only a short distance
off the Ayrshire coast.
Castles of Ayrshire and their grounds were acquired by clans that supported
Scottish Kings in battle, the braver in battle, the greater the reward.
Famous Ayrshire clans include: Boyd, Boyle, Bruce, Campbell, Cathcart,
Craufurd, Cunningham, Hamilton, Hunter, Kennedy, Lockhart, Montgomery,
Mure and Wallace.
The island of Ailsa Craig is now a bird sanctuary.
The Waverley Paddle Steamer offers weekly excursions around the island
in summer from Largs, Ayr and Girvan. Cumbrae famous for its cycle lane
around the island has a regular ferry service from Largs as well as weekly
visits by the Waverley in summer.
The largest island Arran with its scenic mountains has a regular ferry
service from Ardrossan as well as being visited by the Waverley weekly
in summer.
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