Ayshire: Ayr, Troon, Arran Island, Galloway Forest Park...

Ayrshire is a county in south-west Scotland. Its principal towns include Ayr, Kilmarnock and Irvine and it has a population of approximately 366,800.  

In here you have lots of great cities and activities to discover.

 

1. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

I advise you to go to the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park just for a walk or merely to do sailing, kayaking, canoeing and raft building on the shallow inland Castle Semple Loch. Also, other activities are offered  such as archery, mountain biking, hill walking, orienteering, navigation and first aid.

 

2. Ayr

You will find in this city a lot of shops and the beach ! As well, just near this city you cannot avoid Culzean Castle and its Country Park. Beautiful landscapes guaranteed. It offers as well attractions including an adventure play park, aviary, deer park, icehouse,orangery, ancient vinery, and so on.

 
Regular summer events, such as battle re-enactments, silver bands, jousting, classic car rallies, open-air concerts, craft fairs, pond dipping and nature walks with the rangers give a constant flow of interesting happenings.

Fares : Culzean Castle & Country Park £15.50. Culzean Country Park only £10.50



 3. Troon

Still in Ayrshire you have lots of golf courses, especially in Troon. This town, known as a golfing hotspot, has seven courses including Royal Troon, which regularly hosts the famous Open Championship.

In here, also, you have a nice beach with beautiful landscapes and the view on Arran Island. You can do kite surfing too !

4. Arran Island

Moreover, you definitely have to go to the Isle of Arran. It is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and situated near Ayr. It is composed of a lot of hills. The highest of these hills is Goat Fell at 873.5 metres. The largest valley on the island is Glen Iorsa to the west.

By Train ;  there is a direct train service from Glasgow Central to Ardrossan Harbour.

5.50£ return with the railcard. More info: http://www.visitarran.com/

Then, you will take a ferry from Ardrossan Harbour to Brodick. The crossing takes 55 minutes, and it is advisable to book in advance if you are planning to bring a car to the island.

 

5. Other events

If you enjoy sport and adventure, like me, I advise you to take part of the muddy race in Kilmarnock, or in different places in Scotland, it is a great experience and a good fun.

6. Galloway Forest Park

Galloway Forest Park is the largest in Britain, and at night, it is one of the best spots in the UK to stargaze with the naked eye. Thousands of stars and even the Milky Way are all visible without the use of a telescope.