PLACES TO STAY…

Glenapp Castle, Ballantrae, 01465 831212. Luxury accommodation, with oak-panelled walls and stunning views out to sea.

Dalgarven House Hotel, Dalry Road, Kilwinning, 01294 553061. Scenic location and ideal for a visit to the mill and museum.

Woodland Bay Hotel, Girvan, 01465 710700. Stunning seaside location with good food and drink.

Burnside Guest House, Queens Terrace, Ayr, 01292 263912. Victorian terraced guest house within easy walking of town centre.

Royal George Hotel, Quayhead Street, Millport, 01475 530301. Pier-side hotel, an ideal base for touring Great Cumbrae.

Glenapp CastleDean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock, 01563 554734. 200 acres of woodland walks, with 14th century castle and rural life centre.Culzean Castle, Maybole, 01655 884455. National Trust for Scotland property built by Robert Adam with stunning sea views.Dick Institute, Elmbank Avenue, Kilmarnock, 01563 554300. Largest museum and art gallery in Ayrshire, with nationally important exhibitions and work by contemporary artists.Gaiety Theatre, Carrick Street, Ayr, 01292 288235. Premier performing arts venue with a proud history dating back to 1902.

Souter’s