South Ayrshire
Something for everyone. Forty five miles of rugged coastline; long sandy beaches; rolling countryside; coastal and market towns; rural villages; a rich and cultural heritage; world-class golf; award-winning local food and produce… South Ayrshire has a global reputation as a must-see destination.
Ayrshire’s most interesting, picturesque and historic places. Robert Burns trail, Irvine’s maritime history, Ayr Harbour, Culzean Castle, Turnberry Castle, World famous golf courses.
South Ayrshire is one of thirty-two council areas of Scotland, covering the southern part of Ayrshire. It borders onto Dumfries and Galloway, East Ayrshire and North Ayrshire. South Ayrshire had an estimated population in 2021 of 112,450, making it the 19th–largest subdivision in Scotland by population. With an area of 472 sq mi, South Ayrshire ranks as the 15th largest subdivision in Scotland.
South Ayrshire’s administrative centre is located in its largest town, Ayr. The headquarters for its associated political body, South Ayrshire Council, is housed at the towns County Buildings located in Wellington Square. Ayr is the former county town of the historic Ayrshire county, with the political activity of the Ayrshire County Council being based at County Buildings.
South Ayrshire’s population is mostly concentrated around the adjoining coastal towns of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon located to the north-west. Other areas of significance include the towns of Maybole and Girvan which are located to the south of the council area in the district of Carrick.
Ayr is a popular seaside resort in south Ayrshire.
Located 37 miles south west of Glasgow, Ayr is a popular seaside resort, complete with charming sea front, leafy suburbs and range of places to stay.
Ayr has a fantastic esplanade with a long sandy beach which is perfect for walking. There are also plenty of parking spaces on either side of the main road that runs parallel with the beach.
Ayr Racecourse, dating back to the 16th century, runs many Flat and National Hunt meetings throughout the year and is particularly famous as the venue of the Scottish Grand National, the Ayrshire Handicap and the Ayr Gold Cup.
Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, was born in Alloway, on the outskirts of the town. Visitors should make the short trip to visit his birthplace and the new Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
There are also great shopping and dining facilities in Ayr and three public golf courses: Belleisle, Seafield and Dalmilling.
Prestwick, situated on the coast 34 miles south of Glasgow, is Scotland’s oldest baronial burgh, dating back over 1,000 years. It is best known for its international airport, but there is a lot more to it. Robert the Bruce is said to have drunk the water here, at what is now known as Bruce’s Well. The first ever British Golf Open Championship was held at Old Prestwick Golf Course in 1860.
Glasgow Prestwick International airport is situated at the north end of the town. Air traffic has increased significantly over the past few years, and will continue to do so, with the patronage of low-cost airline Ryanair, who transport a multitude of weekenders and holidaymakers to domestic destinations, Ireland and the rest of Europe.
Prestwick Swimming Pool hosts many fun, active activities. The town is also home to a variety of pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés to eat and drink in.
