North Ayrshire

Overview

North Ayrshire is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast.

North Ayrshires sport and recreation facilities are world-class. The area boasts 20 top-quality mainland and island golf courses while nearby are Turnberry, Troon and Old Prestwick, all three still Open Golf venues.

The Firth of Clyde is an international centre for yachting and has ready access to some of the most exhilarating sailing areas in Britain. The Sportscotland National Watersport Centre on the isle of Cumbrae and the Scottish Sailing Institute at Largs provide professional support for regular international and national competitions. The National Centre also provides coaching at every level in a range of water sports including dinghy sailing, cruising, windsurfing and sea kayaking. As a jumping-off point for the cruising waters of the West Highlands and Islands the North Ayrshire coast is ideal.

Other popular outdoor pursuits in the area include climbing, hillwalking, and fishing. Great Cumbrae, a 10-minute ferry trip from Largs, is also worth visiting. Hiring a bike and cycling round the island, stopping at the various beaches that dot the coastline, is the traditional way to enjoy this attractive little gem.

North Ayrshire enjoys an exciting artistic and cultural scene, with performances, exhibitions and festivals staged throughout the region at venues such as the Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine, North Ayrshire Museum, Saltcoats; Vennel Gallery, Irvine; Valley Arts Resource Centre, Kilbirnie; Museum of the Cumbraes, Millport and Kilwinning Abbey Tower. There is also a range of leisure centres for the family readily available across the area.