Destination Ayrshire
Discover whisky, castles, boutiques and more
A. D. RATTRAY WHISKY EXPERIENCE & WHISKY SHOP
Your perfect introduction to Scotch whisky; explore, learn, nose and taste! See a working sample room and traditional cask warehouse. Relax in the tasting room and discover the whisky shop – a completely unique experience with a whisky for everyone. Tel: 01655 760308, www.adrattray.com
SOUTH AYRSHIRE STALKING
South Ayrshire Stalking offers guests the full stalking experience, along with high-quality accommodation set in the beautiful rolling hills and woodland of South Ayrshire. Some of the best roe and red deer stalking in Scotland is available here, with training and assessments for the DSC certificates available. Tel: 01465 871393, www.ayrstalk.co.uk
SEPTEMBER SKIES
September Skies Boutique in Troon offers a wide selection of daywear, cruise wear and occasion wear for the discerning lady. The shop stocks Joseph Ribkoff, Frank Lyman, Libra, Robell, Steilmann, Peruzzi, Maria Bellentani, Signature, Yest and Harvey in sizes six to 24, with coordinating jewellery and accessories. 34 Church Street, Troon. Tel: 01292 315040, www.facebook.com/septemberskiesboutique
NODDSDALE SELF CATERING – BELL LOFT AND EAST WING
Two special guest wings at Noddsdale, a B-listed country house set in mature grounds two miles from the centre of Largs, offer a wonderfully peaceful and comfortable base from which to explore. Enjoy fabulous views of the islands from the house, or take a short walk uphill for a different outlook. Tel: 01475 673757, www.noddsdale.co.uk
BALLANTRAE HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Seven luxury, dog-friendly self-catering cottages situated either by the River Stinchar or at the beach. Sleeping from two to 10 people, each cottage offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy a holiday away from it all, in an idyllic location just off the Ayrshire Coastal Path. Tel: 07974 008048, www.ballantraeholidaycottages.com
SCOTT LEISURE
This magnificent listed farmhouse is situated in an area of natural, unspoilt beauty at Lochfield Farm – the birthplace and former childhood home of Sir Alexander Fleming. The two self-contained units, Shepherd’s Rest and Lamb Cottage, are perfectly equipped for a relaxing break in this unique, country-lovers’ paradise. Tel: 01560 320722, www.scott-leisure.co.uk
LOCHGREEN HOUSE HOTEL
Lochgreen House Hotel is situated within 30 acres of gardens in Troon, offering 32 luxurious bedrooms and an award-winning three AA Rosette restaurant. Renowned for its warmth of hospitality, Lochgreen has been setting the standard in Ayrshire for 25 years. Tel: 01292 313343, www.costley-hotels.co.uk
HEADS OF AYR FARM PARK
Explore Buccaneer Bay and Camelot Castle and go wild in the indoor and outdoor play areas! As well as all the fun activities there are many different, exciting and unusual animals to meet and learn all about, including camels, tapirs, meerkats, monkeys and lemurs. Tel: 01292 441210, www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk
GLENAPP CASTLE
Looking out across the Irish Sea to Ailsa Craig, the fairy-tale Glenapp Castle offers luxury five-star bedrooms and suites, fabulous food and a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. Glenapp is undoubtedly one of the finest country house hotels in Scotland and the perfect base from which to explore beautiful South Ayrshire. Tel: 01465 831212, www.glenappcastle.com
KELBURN CASTLE
Kelburn’s unique gardens and historical rooms offer a beautiful and magical backdrop to your perfect day – with the dining room and its original Chippendale furniture, the elegant drawing room with sunset island views, dating back to 1700, and a number of period bedrooms available for you and your guests. Tel: 01475 568685, www.kelburnestate.com
CRAIGENGILLAN ESTATE
Set within a magical Highland landscape on the edge of the Galloway Forest, Craigengillan is a historic and atmospheric 3,000-acre estate of hills, woodland, lochs and rivers. The Mansion House, Holiday Cottages and Stables offer accommodation and venues for events, weddings and film locations. Tel: 01292 551818, www.craigengillan.com
CARRICK LODGE HOTEL
Carrick Lodge Hotel and Restaurant in Ayr provides a wonderfully warm welcome, well-appointed rooms and an excellent dining experience. Close by are The Robert Burns Cottage Birthplace Museum in Alloway, the stunning Culzean Castle, Ayr Racecourse and numerous golf courses including Royal Troon and Turnberry. Tel: 01292 262846, www.carricklodgehotel.co.uk