Arts and culture in Ayrshire & Arran

Uncover the birthplace of Scotland’s favourite son, Robert Burns, and discover how Ayrshire helped define the life and works of a man whom many consider to be the greatest Scot of all time.

Visit the long list of fantastic attractions throughout Ayrshire that celebrate the legacy of the Auld Lang Syne author and take part in the Burns an’ a’ that! Festival where many of Ayrshire’s top venues pay tribute to Scotland’s National Bard.

Continue along the literary theme and head to the Boswell Book Festival in May, which takes place in the grounds of James Boswell’s former home. Often considered the father of the modern biography, this festival in Auchinleck House features a number of guest authors and lets you see Boswell’s study and library.

Head across to the picture perfect Isle of Arran where the arts are hugely popular. You’ll find an abundance of magnificent creative items for sale including knitwear, woodwork, jewellery and paintings - perfect for a souvenir or gift to take home.

For more arts, check out the Craft Town Scotland in West Kilbride, Scotland’s first Craft Town, and peruse eight fantastic craft studios that produce a range of high quality and unique work.

Continue your celebration of Scotland’s vibrant creativity in Ayrshire & Arran by taking in a couple of music festivals. You can uncover the best local and international talent at the Arran Folk Festival or experience an eclectic programme of music and a friendly ambience at the Darvel Music Festival.