North Ayrshire Homecoming Scotland 2009 Programme

North Ayrshire is compact yet diverse.

It is easy to reach from any part of Central Scotland, easy to get around when you get here and its dramatic location on the Clyde Estuary makes the trip worthwhile.

There's beaches, mountains on the island of Arran, active leisure pursuits for every member of the family and a strong sense of local and national heritage.

Leisure and cultural activities abound.

There's 22 golf courses in North Ayrshire alone - Arran has seven.

Marinas at Ardrossan and Largs are a favourite jumping-off point for yachtsmen exploring Scotland's West Coast, one of the world's finest cruising grounds.  Largs and the neighbouring island of Cumbrae are the scene of regular international sailing events.

There's a varied cultural scene.  There's pride in historic links with Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns.  These have been combined with the Local Family and History Centre in Irvine - the Vennel.  Burns learned the flax trade in this building.  Of equal interest to historians and returning homecomers is the wealth of books, pamphlets, archives and expert guidance on tracing local family trees.

Discovering Scotland's heritage, family roots or simply enjoying a holiday - North Ayrshire provides a relaxed, accessible and hospitable homecoming.

North Ayrshire has a number of events programmed to welcome you home.  These include:

Parklive 09, Eglinton Country Park, Kilwinning
30 & 31 May

Marymass Festival, Irvine
13-24 August

Saltcoats Rock
18 & 19 July

Largs Viking Festival
30 August to 6 September

Click on to our local events for more or visit http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk