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Golf and Robert Burns put Ayr on the map, but the area's unique charms have kept it there. Rolling hillsides, dramatic coastline and even some of Scotland's famous islands are all within easy reach of Ayr's old town and its architecture stretching back 500 years.
See
The Brigs of Ayr, as immortalised in the Burns poem of the same name, still stretch over the River Ayr. The nearby Burns National Heritage Park contains the birthplace of the great man as well as a museum dedicated to his honour. Place your bets at Ayr Racecourse or enjoy a round of golf at Turnberry or Royal Troon Golf Course. Walkers can explore the surrounding region's famous hills, islands and coastline.
Spend
Wander the old town to see some of its specialist shops such as the outstanding whisky emporium, Robbie's Drams. You can find all your favourite high-street retailers at The Kyle Centre and also Ayr Central, Ayr's newest and largest shopping destination.
Get Out
Once the biggest port on Scotland's West Coast, the former wharves have been redeveloped and border the long beach, popular with locals when the sun shines. Ayr is also a beacon for the world's golfers with two championship courses within ten miles and a host of 'hidden gem' links and parkland courses.
Culture
Head south of the River Ayr for live music, theatre and dance at Gaiety Theatre. For a real taste of Ayrshire, visit during the Burns an’ a’ that! Festival in May, a celebration of the poet's work featuring an array of artists and events.
Eat & Drink
Famous for its tender beef and lamb, Ayr is a great place for eating and drinking out as many restaurants use local produce. Alternatively, buy your own Ayrshire meats at the monthly Farmers' Market in River Street. With loads of public houses dotted around the compact old town, it's easy to explore Ayr and its pubs at the same time.
New Perspective
The statue of Scottish hero, William Wallace, on the corner of High Street and Newmarket was placed here because local legend suggests he was once held prisoner in Ayr's old jail.
Content provided by Frommer's Unlimited © 2009, Whatsonwhen Limited.
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Prepare
Bring a book of Burns poetry to set the mood for a wander around Ayr's old town and a set of golf clubs to practice your swing on a famous course.
Ayr Year
Celebrate Ayr's favourite son during January's Burns Night Celebrations or during the Burns an' a' that! Festival in May. August sees the Ayr Flower Show come to town, while in September the Ayr Racecourse hosts one of the first big races of the flat racing calendar, the Ayr Gold Cup.
Public Holidays
New Year's Day, 2 Jan, Good Friday (Mar/Apr), Early May Bank Holiday, Spring Bank Holiday (May), Summer Bank Holiday (Aug), Christmas Day (25 Dec), Boxing Day (26 Dec).
Weather
A trip to the west coast will rarely bring you settled weather so pack for a bit of everything. The warm gulf-stream brings gentle coastal breezes to Ayrshire and, while rain can be heavy, it rarely lasts long. Spring (March-May) is usually wet and the best weather is between June and August.
Electricity
240V AC, 50 Hz, three-pin plugs are standard.
Dialling Code
+44 (national), (0) 1292 + six-figure number (Ayr).
Ayr Tourist Info
Ayrshire & Arran Tourism website
Fit In
If you're thinking about packing your Aran sweater to look like a local – don't. They are not made in the nearby Isle of Arran but the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland.
Highlights
Admire Ayr's beautiful old town with its elegant townhouses dating back to the 16th century from the banks of the River Ayr.
With so much history in a relatively small area, Ayr is easily explored on foot. Wander over the Auld Brig of Ayr towards the old town and the remarkable Wallace Tower. The Citadel's ancient walls are surprisingly well preserved. Built by Cromwell in 1654 on the site of a previous castle, it was used to rule much of Scotland and still makes for an impressive sight. Venture further afield towards Alloway and explore the Burns National Heritage Park, which includes the poet's birthplace, a dedicated museum and the Brig O’Doon, immortalised in his poem Tam O' Shanter.
Sightseeing Tips
Ayr serves as a perfect jump-off point to the countryside that surrounds it. Nearby Culzean Castle and the Isle of Arran are just two superb day trips easily done from Ayr.
Content provided by Frommer's Unlimited © 2009, Whatsonwhen Limited.
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