Things to do in Ayr
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Auld Kirk
The atmospheric cemetery here overlooks the river and is good for a stroll, offering an escape from the bustle of High St. Several of his poems are set here in Ayr; in Twa Brigs, Ayr’s old and new bridges argue with one another. The Auld Brig (Old Bridge) was built in 1491 and spans the river just north of the church. In Burns’ poem Tam o’Shanter, Tam spends a boozy evening in the pub that now bears his name, at 230 High St.
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Beresford
Style and fun go hand in hand at this upbeat establishment serving afternoon martinis in teapots and luring churchgoing ladies with artisanal chocolates. The food is a creative fusion of influences based on solid local produce, with Ayrshire pork, west coast oysters, and Scottish lamb often featuring. Some dishes hit real heights, and are solidly backed by a wide choice of wines, with 10 available by the glass. It stays open as a bar after the kitchen closes. Top service seals the deal.
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Fouter’s
The best place to eat in town, Fouter’s is a class act set in a former bank vault opposite the town hall. It’s an ideal place to splash out on a top-class dinner without breaking the budget. It specialises in Ayrshire produce (such as new-season local lamb with pine nut, garlic and herb crust) and seafood prepared Mediterrean style. There’s an early-dining menu (£15 for two courses) from 5pm to 7pm.
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Caprice
This French bistro-style bar-café provides dining among imported beers and well-to-do locals. Stained-glass windows, plenty of natural light, booth seating and a long bar gives Caprice a warm and intimate setting. There are great early meal deals too such as pizza, pasta or risotto for £5, from 5pm to 6.30pm Sunday to Thursday.
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Pumpernickel
Continental-style toasties and other delicious snacks are dished out at this deli-café. Dine indoors among the cheeses, meats and preserves or at outdoor tables on the pedestrianised street. It’s a good spot for a glass of wine in the afternoon, too. If the weather’s right, go for a gelato (£6).
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St John’s Tower
St John’s Tower is the only remnant of a church where a parliament was held in 1315, the year after the celebrated victory at Bannockburn. John Knox’s son-in-law was the minister here, and Mary, Queen of Scots, stayed overnight in 1563.
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Auld Brig
Most things to see in Ayr are Burns-related. Several of his poems are set here in Ayr; in Twa Brigs, Ayr's old and new bridges argue with one another. The Auld Brig was built in 1491 and spans the river just north of the church.
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Beachfront
The beachfront is good for a walk in sunny weather, especially at low tide when a huge sandy beach is revealed. The silhouettes of Arrans peaks in the bay form an impressive backdrop.
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Tam O’Shanter
Opened in the mid-18th century and featured in the Burns poem whose name it now bears, this is an atmospheric old pub with traditional pub grub (served noon to 9pm).
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Pancake Place
Serves sweet and savoury pancakes (with fillings such as Mexican chilli or toffee apple) and all-day breakfasts.
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Tesco
If you're after a supermarket for self-catering, there's a huge Tesco by Ayr Racecourse.
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Asda
If you're after a supermarket for self-catering, there's an Asda near the river.
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