Ayrshire is a stunning part of Scotland, running along the southwestern coastline from Skelmorlie, to Ballantrae, near Loch Ryan. Lined with scoops of soft-sand bays, secluded coves and fishing harbours, the whole of the coastline has magical views of the Firth of Clyde and the atmospheric looking Isle of Arran in the distance. Aryshire’s interior is no less picturesque: rolling, wind-ruffled hills meet fertile plains dotted with the oft stark ruins of castles, and around 50 golf courses. The best places to stay in Ayrshire are a very mixed collection, ranging from grand country house conversions, through less grand country house conversions, lodge conversions, golf resorts, and some family-friendly bucket-and-spade holiday gems.

As well as being known for its golf courses — the Royal Troon Golf Club is a regular on the Open Championship circuit — and for its spectacular coastline, Ayrshire is also known for its produce, and some of areas in Ayrshire are worth including on any foodie's map of Scotland. Try the surf, and turf, and the sheep, pigs and potatoes grown in seaweed-based fertiliser. You'll discover local produce in the fabulous old pubs, cafes and tea rooms, as well as in the fancier restaurants and hotels.

Excellent food is always a key element in a walking holiday too, and some of the best places to stay in Ayrshire would be well suited to walkers. The whole region is run-through with paths, across windswept headlands and past crumbling castles. Not all of Ayrshire’s castles are crumbling though, many lowland clans have kept theirs in good shape; we recommend checking out 13th century Turnberry Castle — which may be the birthplace of Robert the Bruce, and Culzean Castle, an elegant 18th century castle that once housed the Kennedy clan. The real highlight of any history fan’s explorations will be Robbie Burns, who was a local lad, and wrote many poems about Aryshire’s landscape. And finally, if you've got the time, don’t forget to take a trip to Arran — ferries leave from Ardrossan.

The Best Places to Stay in Ayrshire

For a Countryside Escape

• Glenapp Castle is a family-owned baronial castle in Scotland’s historic lowlands, a place of turrets and towers, oak-panelled rooms, huge fireplaces and everything on a grand scale, from the entrance hall to the paintings. This part of the world is wonderfully unspoiled, and there are some astonishingly beautiful views along peaceful walking trails right out of the hotel doors. The hotel has 17 huge rooms and suites. There’s also a tennis court and a croquet lawn, and fishing and golfing opportunities a short distance away. The restaurant has won a number of awards, and the attentive staff deserve some too.
• Dumfries House Lodge is a traditional Scottish lodge, on the Dumfries House Estate, with access to the grounds, and the very good Woodlands Restaurant, which is just ten minutes' walk away. Accommodation in the lodge is in 22 rooms and suites, decorated with chintz and antiques, with decor ranging from simple to quite ornate. Opt for the four-poster rooms for a romantic getaway. Expect welcoming fireplaces, and an authentically Scottish feel.

For the Coast

• The Salt Lodge is a collection of one and two-bed self-catering apartments overlooking the harbour at Troon. The wood-clad exterior in its shades of ombre blue is contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows and glass balconies — all the better for the views — and inside the contemporary simplicity continues, with plenty of blonde wood and a white backdrop. Next door is a restaurant, which is open from breakfast, and where you can expect a casual atmosphere and plenty of seafood.

For Golfers

• Troon is famous for its golf courses and Lochgreen House is just outside town, surrounded by woodlands and its own grounds and gardens. It’s been carefully converted from a large and elegant manor house, and now offers guests peace and tranquility in its 32 generously proportioned rooms and suites, and in its luxurious spa and award-winning restaurant. Each of the rooms has been individually designed and decorated, and downstairs are a number of uniquely dressed sitting rooms with cosy fires and a welcoming air. An ideal spot for preparing for your game.

Best B&Bs

• Ladyburn House is a beautifully converted country house set in award-winning gardens outside of Dailly. This is a peaceful pick, offering traditional elegance amid picturesque views. There are just five bedrooms, some twins (our favourites come with four-poster beds), plus a ‘granny flat’, which offers a bit more privacy. Children over 12 are welcome. Expect chintz, antiques. and indulgent breakfasts.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Ayrshire has its own airport: Prestwick International Airport, which is just a couple of miles outside Troon. It’s also right beside Glasgow Airport, and many of Ayrshire’s highlights are only about an hour to an hour and a half away from Edinburgh International Airport too. If you’re coming via London, you can catch the train all the way up to Glasgow in around five hours, and then go on from there.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Scotland’s unpredictable weather is well known, and Ayrshire is subject to all the usual recommendations about packing wet weather gear at all times. The up-side is that during the summer months, many Scottish destinations enjoy long days with plenty of light. June, July and August are the lightest months.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to our Gurus’ recommendations for the best places to stay in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands
• Refine your search to the best places to stay on Arran or the best places to stay in Troon
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.