Site search:
Gaidhlig | Scots
To Go!

Welcome to

East Ayrshire

 

On the doorstep of Glasgow, East Ayrshire boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sites, breathtaking landscape and scenic walks.

Enjoy the warm Scottish welcome whilst sampling mouth-watering local produce. Warm the soul with live music. Wonder at the legends and history that wrap themselves around you. Catrine VoesImmerse yourself in the words of Robert Burns and enjoy the beauty of the stunning landscape. Whether you want to relax, unwind, explore, or be surprised, discovering the treasures of this beautiful area will treat your senses and feed your soul.

Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns is one of Ayrshire’s most famous sons. He took his poetic and musical inspiration from itsBurns House Museum (Mauchline) people, towns and countryside. Visit his first marital home, the Burns House Museum in the cobbled streets of Mauchline or visit The Dick Institute in Kilmarnock, the town where Burns published his first works.

Whilst here make sure you visit the area’s many attractions such as Dean Castle & Country Park, Dumfries House, Doon Valley Museum and the exhilarating Loudoun Castle Family Theme Park.

Dean Castle (Kilmarnock)  Dumfries House (near Cumnock)

If you want to stretch your legs and admire the scenery there are a fantastic array of walks and trails on offer throughout East Ayrshire. Take a stroll along the River Ayr Way and marvel at the Bronze Age cup and ring markings, meander through the Irvine Valley, or explore the path networks of the Doon Valley which lead into the Galloway Forest Park and Loch Doon.

Glen Afton (near New Cumnock) Loch Doon (near Dalmellington)

East Ayrshire offers wonderful local cuisine and you will be spoilt for choice with the variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and brasseries selling a range of sumptuous local fayre.

With so much to do, one visit is never enough. But don’t worry because in East Ayrshire you’re always welcome…

Start planning your trip now - view our calendar of events or search and book accommodation in the area!

Useful Links:

http://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk 
http://www.visiteastayrshire.com 
http://www.futuremuseum.co.uk
http://www.comebacktoayrshire.com
http://www.ayrshire-arran.com

East Ayrshire Council Logo

Be Near Me (Kilmarnock)

Be Near Me (Kilmarnock)

In an outstanding new adaptation, the National Theatre of Scotland brings Ayrshire novelist Andrew O'Hagan's gripping book Be Near Me to the stage.
MORE INFO
Creative Burns

Creative Burns

This exhibition will explore both Burns' own creative output and his legacy to the present day.
MORE INFO
Mauchline Plough Match

Mauchline Plough Match

Mossgiel Farm, Mauchline, was home to Robert Burns, the Ploughman Poet, from 1782-1784.
MORE INFO
Burns an' a' that Festival (East Ayrshire)

Burns an' a' that Festival (East Ayrshire)

The 8th Burns an' a' That! Festival will be the biggest ever as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Rabbie Burns in style.
MORE INFO
Mauchline Holy Fair

Mauchline Holy Fair

This 18th century community Festival pays tribute to one of Robert Burns' most famous poems: The Holy Fair, a poem written in Mauchline where Burns lived with Jean Armour between 1784-1786.
MORE INFO
Ayrshire Innovators

Ayrshire Innovators

Ayrshire Innovators will explore the profound impact of key innovators that lived, worked or were born in the area.
MORE INFO
Mauchline Homecoming Marquee

Mauchline Homecoming Marquee

Held at the farm where Burns penned some of the world's best poems, this 3 day community event celebrates Burns' outstanding contributions to poetry.
MORE INFO
Taste of the Tattoo (Dumfries House, Cumnock)

Taste of the Tattoo (Dumfries House, Cumnock)

In celebration of Scotland's Year of Homecoming, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in its history, will also be going on tour.
MORE INFO
An Evening with the Ayrshire Ploughman

An Evening with the Ayrshire Ploughman

An evening in celebration of the life of Robert Burns that includes the story of the Ayrshire Ploughman, traditional Scottish music and Scottish food and drink.
MORE INFO
Kilmarnock's Tartan Tidings

Kilmarnock's Tartan Tidings

A weekend of traditional and contemporary entertainment.
MORE INFO