Golf in South West Scotland
The south west coast of Scotland is brimming with top class courses, such as Turnberry Ailsa, Glasgow Gailes, Western Gailes, Dundonald Links, Irvine Bogside and Kilmarnock Barassie to name but a few. It is a real shame that for the visiting golfer who is in a headlong rush to reach Prestwick and Royal Troon, that they miss the opportunity of experiencing some of the Open qualifying venues on offer.

Beach
Troon's beach is extremely popular with families, windsurfers, joggers, or those looking for a leisurely evening stroll after a day on the golf course. The parking facilities of Troon Beach are less 100 yards for the Royal Troon's clubhouse.

History & Heritage
Ayrshire is steeped in history with links to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Robert Burns. William Wallace 1270-1305, began his rise to fame by operating as an outlaw in Ayrshire. Robert the Bruce 1274-1329, born at Turnberry Castle south of Ayr, became Scotland's legendary King. Robert Burns - Please see below. 

There are over 40 castles throughout Ayrshire, many of which can be visited. The three islands Ailsa Craig (bird sanctuary), Arran and Cumbrae are only a short distance off the Ayrshire coast.  

Castles of Ayrshire and their grounds were acquired by clans that supported Scottish Kings in battle, the braver in battle, the greater the reward. Famous Ayrshire clans include: Boyd, Boyle, Bruce, Campbell, Cathcart, Craufurd, Cunningham, Hamilton, Hunter, Kennedy, Lockhart, Montgomery, Mure and Wallace.

Culzean Castle and Country Park, situated on a cliff-top near Maybole, is often described as the 'Jewel in the Crown' for the National Trust of Scotland. Kelburn, Dean and Brodick are just some of the many other well-preserved castles which are certainly worth a visit. Others which, although now ruins, have their own tales and history to tell - Eglinton, Dundonald, Greenan, Dunure, Portencross, Loch Doon and many more.

Robert Burns (1759-1796)
Born in the village of Alloway on the 25th January 1759, in a thatched cottage built by his father. You can visit the thatched cottage, referred to as the 'Auld Clay Biggin', which has been restored to its original setting as it was in the poet's time. An adjacent museum houses a unique collection of original manuscripts, including "Auld Lang Syne", paintings and personal artefacts.

Location
Prestwick airport - 20 minutes
Glasgow International airport - 45 minutes