Sandyknowe ref: 539012

About the local area

Its dramatic coastline, stunning scenery, fascinating history and heritage, excellent range of outdoor activities, particularly the golf courses which are highly regarded throughout the sporting world, combine to make this region a perfect holiday destination. Culzean Castle, situated on the Ayrshire coastline 12 miles to the south of Ayr and one of Scotland's most iconic visitor attractions, is a must see for holiday makers new to the region. Standing at the edge of 150 feet cliffs with panoramic views of the Firth of Clyde, it typifies the very best of this beautiful region; rugged, dramatic, and awe inspiring. It is a castle with many stories to tell. On the first floor for example; is an exhibition dedicated to General Dwight Eisenhower, the great World War II Commander, who was given a lifetime tenancy on one of the flats in the castle as a thank you for American help during the war. The castle grounds together with the magnificent walled garden are equally recommended and do full justice to the architectural grandeur of the iconic building. Dumfries House in south west Ayrshire is one of Britain's most beautiful stately homes and best kept heritage secrets. The House has been described as an 18th century time capsule since the principal rooms and their contents have remained virtually unchanged for 250 years. It was considered so important to keep this historical jewel intact and accessible to the public, that in 2007 the Prince of Wales headed a consortium of heritage bodies to purchase the property for the nation. In addition to these heritage gems, Ayrshire is also Rabbie Burns' country who described Coylton as "the bonnie glen"! The Burns heritage trail beginning at his boyhood home in Alloway, south of Ayr, is a thought provoking journey through the life of one of Scotland's great poets and still revered today. There are a number of beautiful islands off the Ayrshire coast and boat trips are readily available. The Isle of Arran for example, is considered 'Scotland in miniature' with its lovely coastline and pretty villages, castles, distillery and brewery. The south of the island has an attractive mix of green hills and woodland whilst to the north the mountains loom large with Goat Fell heading the pack at just less than 3000 feet. The Isle of Cumbrae, another gem and accessed by ferry from Largs, is just over 10 miles in circumference with breathtaking scenery and quiet roads, making this an ideal spot for cyclists and walkers. Cumbrae's ' The Cathedral of the Isles' is reputed to be the smallest cathedral in Europe.

Things to do nearby