Ayr Mini Guide
What’s Ayr Like?
It’s a small port town on the west coast of Scotland but with a lot of history. The town has had its charter for over 800 years and it was there in the 14th century that Robert the Bruce held the first Scottish Parliament. The town is also renowned as the home of Scotland’s most famous citizen, Robert Burns, and was visited by Oliver Cromwell.
How Easy is it to get to?
Very easy indeed. One of the biggest airports in the north of the
UK is within minutes of the town.
Prestwick International Airport takes flights from all over Europe and North America. From the airport it’s a quick and cheap taxi fare into the town centre or alternatively you can take the bus in. You can hire a car at the airport which will help you get to many of the area’s attractions of which some are outside Ayr itself.
OK, so What am I Going to see There?
If you’re a horse racing fan, Ayr racecourse is one of the most prestigious in Scotland and hosts the Scottish Grand National in late spring. Alloway, a short walk from the town centre is the location of the house where Robert Burns was born. Today the building is a museum and holds a collection of his original books. There’s a fabulous multimedia centre dedicated to the poet nearby and the ruined church that was the setting for his famous poem ‘Tam O’Shanter’. For those who enjoy walking, the coast around Ayr, whilst flat, offers many interesting views, on some days even as far as the Northern Irish coast.
What can I buy as Souvenirs?
There’s a lot of typically Scottish fare on offer including kilts and accessories of Highland dress, memorabilia of Robert Burns and Scottish produce including shortbread and haggis.