Sitting on the lovely Ayrshire coast, at the mouth of the River Ayr, is the historical coastal town of Ayr. The town is steeped in history, with its roots going back to the 13th century, pre-dating the Magna Carta, Ayr is the oldest Royal Burgh in Scotland.

This popular seaside resort has a splendid esplanade with a long, sandy beach. From the beach, you can see out over the sea to the nearby Isle of Arran and on a very clear day you may even make out the northern tip of Northern Ireland. The long beach is perfect for relaxing walks and taking in the invigorating sea air.

As well as its fine beach, many shops and restaurants, Ayr is home to some beautiful 15th century buildings and landmarks, such as Louden Hall, the Tolbooth and the Auld Brig, which is now a pedestrian walkway. Although none of the 10th century Ayr Castle exists above ground, in 1654, Oliver Cromwell built a citadel on the castle site, the walls of which remain largely visible today.

Spend a day at Ayr Racecourse, one of Scotland’s best known racecourses, it plays host to both National Hunt and flat racing and is sure to provide an adrenaline-fuelled day out. Explore the Ayr coastline and visit the coastal resorts of Troon and Prestwick.

However you choose to spend your days, Ayr has plenty to whet your appetite and if you are so inclined, you might want to spend your evenings whetting your palate with a local Ayrshire whiskey and perhaps raising a wee dram to Ayr’s famous son, Robbie Burns who was born in nearby Alloway.

Discover this historical town for yourself and search for holiday cottages in Ayr today.