Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 21 on 10/07/2005.

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Something for everyone (Ayrshire and Arran)

Ayrshire and Arran don’t enjoy as much attention as destinations further North, but they have a lot to offer

If you’re of the view that Scotland is that piece of land north of Glasgow and Edinburgh, think again. The Borders in the South East and Dumfies and Galloway in the South West offer a different but no less stunning landscape. And further up the West Coast Ayrshire and the gateway it offers of Arran provide plenty of opportunity to explore.

Certainly golf enthusiasts will delight in the choice in this area.

Ayrshire hugs the coast alongside the Firth of Clyde and is a comparatively flat corner of Scotland characterised by its rolling hills and farmlands.

In the centre is the coastal resort and capital Ayr, a busy shopping centre and commercial seaport. It is also the launch pad for tourist exploration of Ayrshire, as flights to Prestwick International Airport land here.

The region is probably best known as the birth place of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, who was born in the village of Alloway in 1759.

Ayrshire abounds with places connected with the poet, so much so that it is difficult to move within the boundaries of Ayrshire without coming into contact or being reminded of his influence and popularity in the region.

Robert Burns' life is celebrated all year round here, the two biggest celebrations of all things Burns being 'Burns Night' (25th January) and a week long festival in May/June called 'Burns an' a' that!' which is a celebration not only of Rabbie himself but of life and contemporary Scottish culture.

Burns wrote in the lowland dialect known as Lal.....

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By Dominic Roskrow

Section : Regional Focus

Page number : 34