15 Best Towns and Villages in Ayrshire To Visit
Many amazing destinations are located on the west coast of Scotland. This post lists the best towns and villages in Ayrshire to visit.
Ayrshire attracts visitors from England, Ireland, Wales and the rest of Scotland. There is a mix of lovely seaside towns and villages where you can experience the local culture.
This area of Scotland offers adventures, quaint towns and stunning sea views. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, renowned golf courses and wildlife.
Ardrossan
Ardrossan is a historic harbour town which has lovely sandy beaches. Visitors can admire the wonderful views over the Firth of Clyde. Located on the north side of Irvine Bay between Irvine and Largs, 30 miles southwest of Glasgow.
Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, Ardrossan was well-established for shipbuilding. Nowadays, people who are wishing to go to the Isle of Arran can now catch a CalMac ferry from Ardrossan.
This is a lovely place to take a coastal walk on one of the town’s beaches. Also, visitors can head to Clyde Marina to grab a bite to eat or simply view the 250 boats sitting in the harbour.
Things to do in Ardrossan
- Ardrossan Castle
- South Beach
Ayr
Ayr is a popular seaside resort in South Ayrshire, located 37 miles southwest of Glasgow. The town has a charming seafront with a fantastic esplanade.
There is a lovely beach which is perfect for walking, Lang Scots Miles can be found on the beachfront of Ayr. Ayr Beach attracts lots of visitors, especially during the summer months.
Many Flat and National Hunt meetings are held at the 16th-century Ayr Racecourse. The venue is well known as it is where the Scottish Grand National, the Ayrshire Handicap and the Ayr Gold Cup are held.
Back in the 17th century on the outskirts of town, Alloway is where Robert Burns was born. Visitors can head to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum to visit his birthplace.
Head to Heads of Ayr Farm where you can see an array of furry animals including guinea pigs, goats, horses and llamas. At Rozelle Estate and Park, you can enjoy woodland walks, visit the art gallery and museum or soak in the tranquillity of the country grounds around the estate.
The ruins of 17th-century Greenan Castle are located on the outskirts of Ayr. The remains are perched on the edge of a ledge and make a good viewpoint.
Things to do in Ayr
- Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
- Ayr Beach
- Lang Scots Mile
- Greenan Castle
- Heads of Ayr Farm Park
- Ayr Racecourse
- Rozelle Estate and Park
- Belleisle Conservatory
Beith
Beith is a small town located in Garnock Valley in North Ayrshire. There are attractive buildings in the town dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
The impressive Auld Kirk dates back to the 15th century. In addition, Scapa Cottage and the Town House are two important landmarks in the town.
Kilbrinie Loch is nearby and is a popular place for fishing. Beith is located near Clyde Muishiel Regional Park.
In the regional park, visitors can explore the ruins of Glengarnock Castle, head to the visitor centre or enjoy one of the nature walks in the hills.
Things to do in Beith
- Kilbirnie Loch
- Glengarnock Castle
- Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Cumnock
Cumnock is an old Victorian town with a strong industrial past. The town has an old grand church and Mercat Cross in the centre.
Nearby, is the stunning stately home called Dumfries House. The interior of the house can only be seen by guided tour, there is no charge for admission onto the estate.
Things to do in Cumnock
- Dumfries House
- Heritage Centre Cumnock
- Blackstone Clydesdales
Girvan
Girvan is a seaside resort which dates back to 1668. The population of Girvan is approximately 6000 people.
There are spectacular views of Ailsa Craig from Girvan as well as the green countryside surrounding the town. Visitors head to Carrick Forest to enjoy one of the many woodland nature trails.
The best place to get a view of Ailsa Craig is Girvan Beach. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Isle of Arran and Mull of Kintyre.
One of Girvan’s attractions includes the Stumpy Tower, a building which was originally a prison but now displays fascinating exhibits. Also, visitors head to the McKechnie Institute or enjoy one of the many shops, cafes or restaurants in the town centre.
There are over 20 castles near Girvan that are worth viewing. Some of these are ruins like Dalquharran Castle, while others remain as private stately homes.
Things to do in Girvan
- Dalquharran Castle
- Girvan Beach
- Girvan Golf Course
- Carrick Forest
- Byne Hill
Irvine
Irvine was a Royal Burgh and has had an important historical and maritime history. In the former shipyard building, you will find the Scottish Maritime Museum.
There are lovely walking paths at Eglinton Country Park, it is a great place to go to stretch your legs. Also, visitors can enjoy the lovely views of Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran from Irvine Beach.
Things to do in Irvine
- Eglinton Castle
- Harbour Arts Centre
- Irvine Beach
- Scottish Maritime Museum
Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock is the largest town in Ayrshire and it is the administrative centre. It is home to a lovely monument of Robert Burns, in the centre of Kay Park.
The Dick Institute is a large museum featuring art galleries and creative spaces. The cultural centre opened in 1901 and welcomes over 120,000 visitors a year.
Dean Castle and Country Park feature over 200 acres of parkland including a well-preserved 14th-century castle, wildlife and woodland walks.
Caprington Castle is a 15th-century castle located on the River Irvine. This immaculate keep has lovely landscapes and woodlands to explore.
Things to do in Kilmarnock
- Dean Castle Country Park
- Kay Park
- The Dick Institute
- The Burns Monument Centre
- Palace Theatre
- Caprington Castle
Kilmaurs
Kilmaurs is a lovely attractive village three miles north of Kilmarnock. There is a lovely selection of shops and a row of one-storey weaver houses.
Rowallan Castle Golf Club is one of Ayrshire’s newest golf courses. It was designed by Colin Montgomerie (winner of 2010 Ryder Cup captain).
Things to do in Kilmaurs
- Rowallan Old Castle
- Craufurdland Activities & TreeTop Trials
Largs
Largs is a holiday resort and is often referred to by Scots as their own Costa del Sol. There are many tourist attractions including arcades, beach bars and ice cream parlours.
Kelburn Castle is located on the outskirts of Largs and its features a mural on the castle walls which was completed by Brazillian artists. The Kelburn Garden Party is held here every summer and throughout the year visitors can enjoy superb views from the castle across Largs.
At the Vikingar! Leisure Centre & Visitor Attraction visitors can learn about the Viking history through artefacts, paintings and exhibits. Also, the Pencil Monuments stand to commemorate the Battle of Largs, a battle which involved the Scots and Vikings.
Deep in the woodland behind Largs, you will be able to find the superb Black Craigs Waterfall. Finally, explore the past of Largs further by exploring the moss-covered ruins of Glengarnock Castle.
Things to do in Largs
- Kelburn Castle and Estate
- Vikingar! Leisure Centre
- Greeto Bridge Trail
- Largs Pencil Monument
- Black Craigs Waterfall
- Glengarnock Castle
Maybole
Maybole is well known for being home to many castles, in the past, there was a high density of Lords and Ladies that lived in the area. One of the first castles to view in the area is Maybole Castle which is located in the centre of Maybole.
Culzean Castle and Country Park is a spectacular area where you can get stunning views of the sea and River Ayr. Collections of military gear and Robert Adam’s staircase are located inside the castle.
Dunure Castle is a 12th-century castle ruin located on the edge of a cliffside. There are fantastic views from ruins overlooking the Firth of Clyde.
Turnberry Lighthouse is a well-kept, remarkable attraction with excellent views. Finally, after exploring all of the ruined castles and spectacular grand houses, have a relaxing stroll along Maidens Beach.
From Maybole, you can have a dram of whisky at the A.D Rattray Whisky Experience. Also, you can learn about scotch whisky and the heritage of the attraction.
Things to do in Maybole
- Culzean Castle and Country Park
- Crossraguel Abbey
- Baltersan Castle
- Thomason Castle
- Croy Shore Beach
- Dunure Castle
- Blairquhan Castle
- Maybole Castle
- Turnberry Lighthouse
Newmilns
Newmilns is a small town located in Irvine Valley in East Ayrshire. Newmilns Tower is an impressive tower house which was established in 1525.
Newmilns Snow and Sports Complex are located in Newmiln. It is a charity-run complex set in the stunning Ayrshire countryside.
Things to do in Newmilns
- Newmilns Snow and Sports Complex
- Strathaven Park
Prestwick
Prestwick is known for having an international airport. Also, it is one of Scotland’s oldest baronial burghs, dating back over 1,000 years.
The town has many restaurants, cafes and a variety of pubs to enjoy. Also, golf has put Prestwick on the map as it is where the first British Gold Open Championship was held.
Things to do in Prestwick
- Prestwick Golf Club
- Prestwick St Nicholas Golf Club
- Prestwick Beach
Saltcoats
The town got its name from the salt panning industry which took place in the 16th century. In the late 17th century, the small harbour was established.
Nowadays, Saltcoats is known for its lovely golden sand beaches and superb harbour. At the North Ayrshire Museum which is located in a former church, visitors can learn more about the area.
Saltcoats has a nice variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Also, there is a cinema, ten pin bowling and visitors can join the Saltcoats Town Trail to learn about the heritage of the town.
Things to do in Saltcoats
- Saltcoats Harbour
- Saltcoats Town Trail
- North Ayrshire Museum
Troon
Many people head to Troon for its famous Royal Troon Golf Course. Troon Beach is a popular destination and locals and tourists.
Barassie Beach is one of the most stunning coastal areas on Ayrshire’s coast. The beach is close to the harbour and there are excellent views across to the Isle of Arran.
Fullarton Fairy Trail is a magical forest trail with tiny fairy houses dotted along the route.
At Troon Yacht Haven, visitors can watch the incoming merchant ships arrive at Troon Harbour.
Head to Dundonald Castle & Visitor Centre and experiences lovely views of the coast including Firth of Clyde, Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig.
Things to do in Troon
- Barassie Beach
- Troon Beach
- Troon Yacht Haven
- Fullarton Fairy Trail
- Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
What are the main towns in Ayrshire?
Kilmarnock is the largest town and administrative centre for Ayrshire. The population of Kilmarnock is approximately 47,000 people.
Ayr is the second largest town in Ayrshire with a population of 46,000 people. Irvine is the third largest town in Ayrshire with a population of approximately 34,000 people.
What are the three towns in Ayrshire?
The three largest towns in Ayrshire are Kilmarnock, Ayr and Irvine.
Final Note
This post lists the 14 best towns and villages in Ayrshire to visit. Ayrshire is split into three administrative counties – North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire and East Ayrshire.
There are lots of visitors attractions in Ayrshire. Visitors can enjoy the Ayrshire countryside, and view the coast and the River Clyde while indulging in the culture.