Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Info
Ayr is the biggest town on the Firth of Clyde coast. The town was formed in the 13th century for the purpose of its port. Historically this was the main port in West Scotland until Glasgow took over in the 1600's. The town is now a seaside resort with a picturesque settings, main sights include the Wallace Tower, bridges over the river, the old town hall and ancient 
church. South Ayrshire is widely known for its famous national Poet; Robert Burns. He is from the town of Alloway, a small town located just outside Ayr. In Alloway there are many monuments dedicated to Burns including; Burns Monument perched on a hillside overlooking Brig O'Doon, Burns Cottage (his birthplace), and the Old Kirk used in his poem Tam O'Shanter. All these monuments are in the Burns National Heritage Park where his life is depicted and you can see how he and his family lived in those times.
Other than Burns visitors come to Ayrshire for its great golf courses. There are 6 golf courses surrounding the famous Royal Troon, a frequent host to the UK Open
Championship. Troon is also a popular seaside resort town where from the sandy beaches you can see the Isle of Arron.
Ayrshire also has links to Scotland's historic heroes William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. William Wallace was born in the town of Ellerslie and Robert the Bruce was born in Turnberry Castle. Turnberry Castle is now in ruins, ironicly destroyed by the Bruce himself in 1310 as so the attacking English could not occupy it. Present day Ayrshire with it's gentle rolling hills and lush farmlands landmarks of these brave heroes past can be found. 
Some castles still standing that you can visit in Ayrshire are Blairquhan Castle and Culzean Castle in Maybole, Dean Castle in Kilmarnock, and Kelburn Castle near Largs. Kilmarnock is a good location to base yourself when exploring East Ayrshire which also has historic roots and associations to Robert Burns.
In Ayrshire, paricularly in the north, there are an abundance of possibilities for outdoor activities. Golfing, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and horse riding are just to name a few. Picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, valleys, lakes and breathtaking shores are spread throughout the region. The Firth of Clyde offer a range of water sports including dinghy sailing, cruising, windsurfing and kayaking.
The Isle of Arran, sits in the Firth of Clyde between Ayrshire and Kintyre. It is the southern most island in Scotland. Only 19 miles long and 10 miles wide Arran is a refreshing get a way from the busy city. Quant pretty seaside villages can be found surrounding the coast offering family owned guesthouses, cottages and B & Bs. An ideal place for a family holiday.
Preswick Airport, one of three International Airports in Scotland is also in Ayrshire. Only approximately 1 hour drive from Glasgow Preswick is where most budget airlines such as Ryanair fly from. For more details request a Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Brochure.
