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Ayrshire & Arran
Ayrshire & Arran sits on the west coast of Scotland and is home to a vibrant island community, charming country towns and sandy shores. Step off the beaten track and explore ancient castles and landscapes steeped in Viking heritage, or discover attractions connected to our National Bard, Robert Burns, who was from this region.
Things to do in Ayrshire & Arran
Take a walk along the coast, find out more about our National Bard or taste a drop of whisky and see how it's made.
Arran outdoor adventures
Stunning landscapes or adrenaline pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Castles in Ayrshire & Arran
From spectacular stately mansions to historic ruins and edifices, discover castles in Ayrshire & Arran.
Wellness and nature in Ayrshire & Arran
Plan your next escape and take time to relax, rejuvenate and restore.
Golf courses in Ayrshire & Arran
Find the fantastic range of golf courses in Ayrshire & Arran.
Beaches in Ayrshire & Arran
Uncover the characterful beaches of the west coast in Ayrshire & Arran.
10 Cool things to do in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere
Check out the coolest things to see and do in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere.
Inspiration for Ayrshire & Arran breaks
Places to stay
Explore a variety of great accommodation options across Ayrshire & Arran. From cosy cottages, self-catering lodges, luxury hotels, and family-run B&Bs, to back-to-nature campsites, exclusive-use venues, glamping pods and more.
Tours, routes & trails
From the gentle Burns' Trail to the sweeping River Ayr Way, discover great driving, cycling, walking and even snorkelling routes!
Unique experiences
Cumbrae
Just a short ferry trip from Largs, Cumbrae is regarded as Scotland’s most accessible island.
Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere
Explore the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere and discover untouched coastlines, deep forests and historic rural communities.
Robert Burns
Discover Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns, his colourful life, most famous works, and the ultimate guide to celebrating Burns Night.
Map of Ayrshire & Arran
Explore Ayrshire & Arran
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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How to travel to Ayrshire & Arran
Getting to Ayrshire & Arran
Train
You can also travel to Ayrshire by train from across Scotland. From Edinburgh the trip takes roughly 3 hours 30 minutes or just 1 hour 50 minutes from Glasgow.
Enjoy 2-for-1 tickets with ScotRail when travelling to or from the Girvan and Maybole stations, until 31 January 2025.
Ferry
Once you're in Ayrshire, you can catch the Ardrossan to Brodick ferry across to the Isle of Arran.
Driving
You can drive from anywhere in Scotland to Ayrshire. From Glasgow or Edinburgh to Ayrshire the trip takes roughly 1 hour and 2 hours, respectively.
Getting around Ayrshire & Arran
Cycling
Arran by bike is incredibly scenic and a great way to experience the island. Bike hire is available in Brodick, with e-bikes available for hire too.
Bus and coach
There are 3 bus routes on the Isle of Arran, the 322, 323, and 324, each covering the north, south and middle areas of the island.
Driving
If you choose to drive around Arran, there are three main routes you can follow; one circuitous road around the island, The String (B880) across, and the Ross Road (single track).
What's on in Ayrshire & Arran
Events
Take a look at some of the latest events and festivals taking place across the region. Get a local guide to explore the hills at Arran Mountain Festival, or experience live music at Kelburn Garden Party.
Places to eat in Ayrshire & Arran
Food & drink
Ayrshire & Arran is full of flavour, with fantastic eateries and an abundant natural larder of tasty delights.
A tip from your local expert
We've all really enjoyed our outings with Mogabout tours, a fabulous way to explore and enjoy the spectacular scenery that Arran has to offer. Alex knows the island so well and has many stories and interesting information to share.
Nines
VisitScotland
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