The Old Byre Visitor Centre is situated on the west coast of the island approximately half a mile north of Machrie golf course. It comprises the Old Byre Showroom shop, Cafe Thyme and a large children's play area. The centre originally began with the Old Byre Showroom however has expanded since 2012 and was consequently accreddited as a 4 star Visitor Attraction by Visit Scotland in the spring of 2014. The centre is a family run business and offers something for everyone.
Cafe Thyme opened in June 2012 and offers a menu not experienced elsewhere on the island. Teas, coffee, homebaking, delicious lunches, homemade bread and pides (Turkish style pizza/calzone baked in the wood burning oven), homegrown salads and herbs, wines, beers, a wide selection of loose leaf teas and a very warm welcome awaits. The couple who run the shop and cafe are a Scottish Turkish mix - this is brought together with a haggis and cheese pide! The cafe is open 7 days a week 10am - 5pm with lunches being served 12-3pm. Telephone number 01770 840608.
The children's play area offers swings, slide, castle, giant sand pit, trampoline, diggers and many more toys. There is a larger field area for basketball, football, swingball and to generally let off steam. Both these are situated opposite the cafe so you can sit and enjoy lunch either inside or out whilst watching the kids play safely. A donation of £1.50 per child is requested to cover maintenance and upkeep.
The Old Byre Showroom has been established since 1967. It offers quality products at reasonable prices with as much sourced from UK companies as possible. They offer quality knitwear, handknitted Arans, sheepskin products, leather bags, clothing and accessories. Brands include Seasalt clothing, Mistral, White Stuff, Fisherman out of Ireland, Harley of Scotland, Scott Officer, Frugi and many more. Our childrens range are primarily organic and Fair Trade.There are also sheepskin rugs, woollen throws, leather handbags and a range of gift items including handcrafted cowhorn products. Most of our knitwear is either Scottish or Irish and made from natural materials.
There really is something for everyone here and you can easily spend a few hours enjoying shopping, eating, walking or merely enjoying all the wildlife and stunning views of Kintyre and the amazing Druid standing stone majestically taking pride of place in the field in front.
