Ayrshire and Arran has an exemplary reputation for scenic beauty and historical importance. Woven into the rich tapestry of the region is a cultural diversity of leisure and sporting activities for the community and visitors alike to enjoy.

From the small town of Maybole in South Ayrshire leads the road to Culzean Castle, a building of magnificence and splendour built by Robert Adam. Now run by the National Trust for Scotland, this stately home is set in beautiful grounds and plays host to a varied range of activities for the visitor to enjoy. Travelling north to Alloway will bring you to the birth place of Scotland’s National bard Robert Burns. Experience his early lifestyle and famous Tam O’Shanter poem in multimedia format at the Burns Heritage Park. Before leaving Alloway don’t forget to visit the McLaurin Galleries in Rozelle Park, where a programme of contemporary visual arts sits alongside a permanent collection from known artists.   

Next stop Dean Castle in East Ayrshire. This 14th Century keep and 15th century palace is a jewel from Kilmarnock’s mediaeval past. Housing Europe’s finest collection of arms and armour, and mediaeval musical instruments, the atmosphere in the Great Hall is haunting and the Banqueting Hall grand. Set in extensive grounds, the visitor and field centres and active Country Park Rangers’ programme of events means that there really is something for everyone to enjoy. The Dick Institute in the centre of the town combines literature, history and arts. Gallery One within The Dick Institute is the largest gallery in Scotland south of Glasgow and plays host to a programme of challenging contemporary visual and applied art throughout the year, many of which are International.

The Vennel Gallery in Irvine, North Ayrshire is situated in the conservation street – the Glasgow Vennel. The Gallery encompasses Burns’ Heckling Shop and further up the street is Burns’ lodgings where he was resident during his time in Irvine. The Vennel Gallery shows a varied programme of contemporary art exhibitions and plays host to many educational events throughout the year.