William Wallace had his roots here and Robert the Bruce, perhaps the most celebrated of Scotland's kings, was born at Turnberry.
The very first Scottish Parliament, held after his victory at the Battle of Bannockburn, was held in Ayr itself.

Every age has left its mark: Arrans' Stone Age standing stones, so old their history is mixed with legend; the medieval castles on Arran and mainland Ayrshire; the elegant country houses and estates of the 18th and 19th centuries and the echoes of the industrial revolution all remain in some shape or form today.

In addition, some of the most innovative visitor attractions carry you back in time to the years of the Vikings.

Historic Itineraries
Explore medieval Scotland, castles and monuments, the industrial revolution, our literary heritage, and much much more:
The itineraries should whet your appetite, they are designed to help and they are flexible. The main focus is to enjoy your visit to the area.

		Itinerary 1 - Culzean Castle This takes you to the elegant grandeur of Culzean Castle - the National Trust for Scotland's flagship property.
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		Itinerary 2 - Arran History As you near Brodick on the ferry from Ardrossan, Brodick Castle is by far the most eyecatching landmark on the landscape. The castle forms the first part of this itinerary; its history and beautiful gardens may well take up most of the day. The Arran Heritage Museum provides a fascinating insight into island life and culture over the ages - with some exhibits dating back to the Stone Age.
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		Itinerary 3 - Royal Dundonald Castle 'cradle of kings' This will take you to the 'cradle of kings' at Royal Dundonald Castle with all its associations with the kings of Scotland.
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		Itinerary 4 - Viking History Travel back in time to the days of the Vikings at Vikingar! in Largs before making your way to Dalgarven Mill for a look at some real 'retro' clothing in this half day itinerary.
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		Itinerary 5 - Dean Castle Dean Castle in Kilmarnock is the starting point for this itinerary. You could spend the best part of a day there, but if you have time, the Dick Institute in Kilmarnock may provide you with information about your Ayrshire family tree.
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		Itinerary 6 - Dramatic Ruins This half-day trip takes you to Souter Johnnie's Cottage, the home of one of Robert Burns' drinking chums, and on to the dramatic ruins of Crossraguel Abbey. During certain periods of the summer you can also visit the beautifully situated Blairquhan Castle in the Girvan valley.
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		Itinerary 8 - Scotland in Miniature This historical car or bus tour of the island takes you through 'Scotland in Miniature' as you pass through all the different landscape types that make up the Isle of Arran. It also takes you back into the island's prehistory to the mysterious standing stones and to the legendary King's Cave before heading north to the dramatic ruins of Lochranza Castle which features in Walter Scott's 'Lord of the Isles'.
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