Ardrossan Harbour is a historic harbour town with sandy beaches and beautiful views. It was a hub for shipbuilding in the 18th and 19th centuries and today serves as a ferry port with regular CalMac services to Arran.
There are a number of things to do in the area. You can explore the town’s historic landmarks, take a walk along the promenade, or spend a day at the beach.
1. Take a walk along the promenade
Ardrossan Harbour is a quiet, family holiday destination and historic port. Its South Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, while its long sandy beach attracts people looking to relax on the shore.
There are also a number of cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or drink with a view. For those interested in learning more about the town’s history, the Ardrossan Heritage Trail is a great place to start.
The trail takes visitors through the town center, past a number of historic landmarks and buildings. It also features a visit to Ardrossan Castle, which is perched on the cliffs above the harbor and offers stunning views of the area. The trail also includes stops at St. Peter’s Church and the Ardrossan Ferry Terminal, which is a busy hub for ferry services to the islands of Arran and Great Cumbrae.
2. Explore the town’s historic landmarks
The large old harbour is a bustling transport hub with regular Calmac services to the Isle of Arran. The town’s historic heyday came in the 18th and 19th centuries when shipbuilding was one of its most important industries.
Today Ardrossan is a popular destination for leisure tourists thanks to its sandy beaches and seaside attractions. The town also offers a range of shopping and dining options, and it’s home to the Eglinton Country Park, which has walking trails, nature reserves, and a visitor center.
The town’s heritage trail is a great way to explore the area’s history. It starts at the town hall and takes visitors past a variety of historic buildings and landmarks. The tour also includes the ruins of Ardrossan Castle, which sits high on a cliff and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. A walker can also enjoy the sandy South Beach, which is lined with cafes and tearooms. There’s a large grassy area here that makes it perfect for picnics.
3. Enjoy a day at the beach
Ardrossan Beach is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, offering a long stretch of sandy beach and fantastic views of the Isle of Arran. It’s also home to a range of amenities, including a children’s playground and cafes.
A number of activities can be enjoyed at the beach, including a coastal walk, cycling, or taking in the historic landmarks. The pier and castle connect the town to key periods in Scottish history, while Castle Hill is home to a prehistoric shell mound.
The beach is easily accessible by public transport, with a railway station in the harbour and bus services run by Stagecoach. There are several supermarkets within walking distance, and the town has a good selection of restaurants and cafes. It’s also an excellent base for exploring the wider Ayrshire area, with nearby attractions including Eglinton Country Park and Kelburn Castle. Ayr is just a short drive away, with its fantastic seafront and historic attractions.
4. Take a day trip to Arran
Arran offers a surprising variety of attractions, from small pretty villages to scenic walks and seascapes, rugged mountains in the north to verdant rolling hills and woodland in the south. A day trip to the island is ideal for seeing the main sights, but a few days will help you explore it more fully.
Brodick Castle and Country Park is a highlight, offering an enhanced visitor experience with mood lighting and visual exhibits. History buffs will also enjoy the castle’s period furniture, silverware, and paintings.
On the east coast, Whiting Bay Beach offers a combination of pebbles, sand, and rock pools. Nearby Kildonan is one of the largest villages on Arran, and it’s well worth visiting for its shops, grocers, and pubs.
The Island of Arran is home to the eye-catching Arran Outdoor Centre, which offers incredible ways to explore the great outdoors, including sailing, hillwalking, and abseiling. The stunning Glenashdale Falls are another must-see attraction.
