The fun of fine fare
Why foodies flock to stunning Ayrshire and Arran
MAKING the most of its natural ingredients, lush countryside and lovely, shimmering coast, Ayrshire & Arran is a foodie heaven. Book a relaxing trip to this vibrant corner of Scotland today and look forward to an unforgettable holiday, filled with stunning scenery, fascinating attractions and exquisite food and drink.
If seafood is your thing, enjoy fresh langoustines, mussels and oysters. Or sample our bacon, you’ll find it in many dishes in l ocal eateries, as well as Ayrshire-reared beef. As for tatties, ours are world-famous and the perfect accompaniment for your haggis – well you are in Burns country.
You can sample a vast number of genuine Scottish malts at the A D Rattray Whisky Experience in kirkoswald, or try some of Ayr Brewing Company’s unique bottlings with a Burns twist, such as Leezie Lundie Pale Ale and Jolly Beggars Best Bitter. At Dunlop Dairy, buy awardwinning cheeses and enjoy a spot of home-baking.
Just a relaxing 55 minutes by ferry from the mainland, and with considerably reduced ferry fares from the end of October thanks to Road Equivalent Tariff – the Isle of Arran is crammed with a variety of fabulous f ood and drink, including delicious cheeses, amazing chocolates, yummy i ce- creams, locally smoked salmon and refreshing ales from Arran Brewery. Take a tour of the Isle of Arran Distillery, appreciate the tasting and take home a special bottle to remind you of your island stay.
Back on the mainland, Nardini’s in Largs is a must-visit at any time of year, to see and try a vast array of traditional and unique ice- cream flavours. There are also regular farmers’ markets throughout the region, where you can try and buy the finest local produce.
Ayrshire & Arran is proud to boast two Michelin- starred restaurants: Glenapp Castle at Ballantrae and Braidwoods in Dalry. If you’d like to dine under the stars, head to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory by Dalmellington and take a midnight feast of local fare to enjoy after your viewing. Or pack a picnic and head for one of the many beaches – the coastal views will be spectacular. If all this is making you feel a bit guilty, there are plenty of outdoor pursuits to enjoy in Ayrshire & Arran.
More than 50 golf courses, walking routes and coastal paths, horse-riding, wind and water sports, mountain biking and sailing can all help to burn off some calories.
Ayrshire & Arran is bursting with flavoursome goodness and have you coming back for seconds, thirds… See: visitscotland. com/ayrshire-arran