Located on Scotland's southwestern coast, this historic town draws visitors to its medieval castle, sandy beaches, and traditional pubs. The seafront includes rocky coves and walking paths.
Ayr, a coastal town in southwest Scotland, sits where the River Ayr meets the Firth of Clyde. Walk along the town's 3-mile sandy beach, watch horse racing at the 16th-century Ayr Racecourse, or explore the cottage where Robert Burns was born. Located 37 miles from Glasgow, Ayr combines its role as South Ayrshire's administrative center with its seaside character, evident in landmarks like the 16th-century Loudoun Hall, the medieval Auld Brig bridge, and three public golf courses.
Getting to Ayr
You can reach Ayr through several major roads including A77 and A70. Glasgow Prestwick International Airport is 2 miles north of the town, while Glasgow Airport is 35 miles away. Regular trains run from Glasgow Central Station, taking about 50 minutes.
Beach and Coastal Activities
The 3-mile esplanade runs alongside a wide sandy beach with clear views of the Isle of Arran and, in good weather, Northern Ireland's northern coast. You'll find parking areas on both sides of the main road, public toilets, and several ice cream shops along the promenade. The sea breeze creates comfortable conditions for walking in summer, while the coastal climate keeps winter temperatures milder than inland areas.
Robert Burns Sites
Visit the birthplace of Scotland's national poet in Alloway, now a suburb of Ayr. The museum complex includes Burns Cottage, where the poet was born in 1759, and interactive exhibits about his life and work. You can walk through the same rooms where Burns grew up and see original manuscripts of his poems.
Horse Racing Experience
Watch races at Ayr Racecourse, Scotland's largest racing venue, which dates back to the 16th century. The track hosts both National Hunt and flat racing throughout the year. Plan your visit around the Scottish Grand National in April or the Ayr Gold Cup in September to experience the biggest racing events in Scotland.
Arts and Entertainment
Watch performances at the Gaiety Theatre, an Edwardian building from 1902. The theater runs regular shows, from comedy to drama. You can access three libraries in town: the Carnegie Library in the center, Alloway Library, and Forehill Library. The town center ranked second healthiest in the United Kingdom according to the Royal Society for Public Health in 2014.
Sports and Recreation
Play golf at three public courses: Belleisle (a James Braid design with tree-lined fairways), Seafield (an 18-hole coastal course), and Dalmilling (a beginner-friendly parkland course). Watch Ayr RFC play rugby at Millbrae, where the team competes in Scotland's top division and has won multiple Scottish Cup and Premiership titles.
