Off the beaten track...
Ayrshire is well known for its coast and castles but venture off the beaten track and discover first class attractions and unique experiences. Slow down the pace and take time out amidst stunning landscapes or get active in the great and magnificent outdoors. It’s all right here waiting to be explored! Step back in time to a key period in Scotland’s history at the dramatic wilderness setting of Loch Doon Castle, built by the family of Robert the Bruce in the late 1200s. Set on the banks of Loch Doon, the castle was originally located on an island in the loch but was moved stone by stone to its current location in the 1930s. This is an incredible spot to explore Scotland’s past amidst its magnificent natural heritage. There are many opportunities for walkers in this area including an extensive network of footpaths at Craigengillan Estate which lies within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire biosphere. The estate encompasses an area of spectacular scenery, waterfalls, woodlands and wildlife and the walk to Ness Glen river gorge is one of the most popular. The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is located within one of only a few ‘gold tier’ Dark Sky Parks in the world. It boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK sitting upon a fantastic hilltop site within Craigengillan Estate. The roll-off roof observatory, dome-housed telescope, viewing deck and activity room are all designed to inspire visitors about the wonder of the universe. Visit their website to pre-book.
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is located within one of only a few ‘gold tier’ Dark Sky Parks in the world
The River Ayr Way is one of Scotland’s Great Trails and is Scotland’s first source to sea path network. The Ballochmyle Viaduct built during the 1840s is situated on the River Ayr Way close to Mauchline and featured in the Tom Cruise film Mission Impossible. Mauchline was the home of Robert Burns during what is regarded as his most creative period and what was his home is now the Burns House Museum. Full of rare collections, original objects and documents relating to Burns’ time. There is also a Burns audio walking tour of the village with handsets available from the museum. Saved for the nation by the intervention of His Royal Highness The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay, Dumfries House is one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes with an unrivalled collection of original Chippendale furniture. Visitors can explore this stunning 2,000 acre estate, enjoy a woodland walk or take a guided tour of the house. For industrial heritage, the magnificent Barony A Frame, near Auchinleck is an outdoor monument celebrating the mining past of the region with spoken stories from some of the men who worked there. It is the last remaining example of its type in Britain, and was restored in 2007 by the Barony A Frame Trust. Dean Castle Country Park is a fantastic free day out for all the family. The country park, covering over 200 acres, is nestled in the heart of Kilmarnock and offers something for all ages to enjoy. You can explore the park using scenic paths and trails - each season brings with it ever changing plants and wildlife to see along the way. There is also a play area and an opportunity to learn about sustainable living in the Rural Life Centre.