Ayrshire Car Hire

Guide of Ayrshire

Geography

Ayrshire, also referred to as Ayrshire and Arran, is a historically significant county located on the coast of the Firth of Clyde in southwestern Scotland. Some of its major cities include Ayr, Kilmarnock, and Irvine, and it shares borders with Dumfriesshire and Kirkcudbrightshire to the east and south, and Renfrewshire and Lanarkshire to the north-northeast. The county of Ayrshire is divided up into three council districts: North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, and East Ayrshire. And like many other counties in Scotland, it has no administrative role at present. Just over 360,000 people call Ayrshire home.

Climate in Ayrshire

Ayrshire has a temperate maritime climate with relatively chilly summers and mild to cold winters. Since Ayrshire is seldom affected by severe weather, the area is enjoyable to visit at any time of year. Kilmarnock, Ayrshire’s largest town, has its warmest month of summer in July and its coldest month of winter in January. The wettest months are December through January, and the driest are February through August. However, rainfall is generally consistent throughout the year.

Culture

From the Neolithic period and the Roman invasion to the Vikings and the Gaels, Ayrshire tales span a wide swath of time and are really intriguing. Throughout the centuries, many different peoples have called Ayrshire home, including Romans, Britons, and Scots. It was a part of Strathclyde throughout the Middle Ages, and its monarch, Duncan I, is considered by many to be the first true ruler of the Scots. After the Norwegians were beaten in the Battle of Largs in 1263, the area is now popular with tourists looking to hear scary accounts of Viking battles told by "genuine Viking" storytellers.

Things To Do in Ayrshire

Have a day out at the Culzean Castle & Country Park

The late 18th century Culzean Castle, located above the Ayrshire cliffs and designed by Robert Adams for David Kennedy, the 10th Earl of Cassillis, is one of the major tourist sites in this region of Scotland. History aficionados and architectural enthusiasts will appreciate a tour of the beautiful castle and its expansive gardens, which are maintained by the National Trust of Scotland. The oval staircase, the rare firearms collection, ceiling paintings by Antonio Zucchi, and Chippendale-style furnishings are among the features. Inside the castle, you may even schedule a stay in the top-floor apartment that was given to President Eisenhower in gratitude for his service during WWII. Children will love exploring the national park's woodland pathways, which are densely forested with conifers and beeches. Take in the fountain court, the magnificent formal gardens, the stunning glasshouses, the deer park, the swan pond, and even the ice house.

Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

The birthplace of the great Scottish poet Robert Burns is located in Alloway, in the southern suburbs of Ayr. You may go to the historic cottage where he was born in 1759 and lived in his early years. It has been renovated into a modern museum with audiovisual elements commemorating the national poet's life and works. Explore hundreds of items from the poet’s life, including handwritten papers and poetry. Later, enjoy a meal at the modest café on the property, which overlooks the River Doon and is said to serve some of Burn's favourite dishes. A short distance away is the 70-foot-tall Burns Monument, which was completed in 1823 and gives spectacular views of Alloway from its top.

Hike the Goatfell Mountain

The Goatfell Mountain, located on the Isle of Arran, boasts a stunning outlook that is popular with hikers and mountain enthusiasts. Among various routes, the most popular is an 8-mile round trip beginning at Brodick Castle. The trail climbs up past the castle grounds' lovely rhododendron bushes and continues into broad moorland at 300 metres before reaching the top via the mountain's eastern slope. When you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views over the island, and on a clear day, you may even be able to see Northern Ireland. After you've descended, treat yourself to some delicious local ice cream from 'Enchantments.'

Eating Out in Ayrshire

Ayrshire boasts a plethora of restaurants and pubs that cater to all tastes and budgets. Here are a handful of our favourites. Mr. Basrai's World Cuisine, located in the centre of Ayr, provides a diverse selection of wonderful cuisines from across the world. Enjoy Thai, Italian, Thai, Indian, and other cuisines. At this buffet restaurant, you may eat as much as you want for a set fee. Logan's Bar and Restaurant within the Carlton Hotel offers an excellent fine dining experience. Enjoy sliced meats from their carvery or a three-course dinner while dancing to live music. The Tudor Kitchen and Grill, which is open seven days a week, is an excellent option for a traditional breakfast or a light supper. Their broad menu includes vegan and gluten-free alternatives as well.

Transport

Airport

Ayrshire is served by Glasgow/Prestwick Airport (PIK) which is the nearest major international airport. It is located 4.4 miles away from Ayr.

Getting Around Ayrshire

Ayrshire is well connected through efficient rail and bus networks. Every half an hour, trains run from Glasgow Central Station. All the main towns have express buses running hourly from Glasgow Buchanan Station. You can also hire private taxis or hire a car (a popular option!).