Nestled between the Galloway Hills and the Water of Girvan, Girvan is the largest town of the Carrick district and is also one of the oldest. The unofficial history of Girvan dates back to prehistoric times to about 3000 B.C. where it is believed people now called lake-dwellers inhabited the land. The town officially became a resort town in 1668, when it became a municipal burgh. The economy of the town in those early days grew steadily due to shoemaking, weaving and fishing, but it was the coming of the railway in 1860 that established a prosperous tourism industry here. The ease with which people could come to the seashore for a vacation made it a very popular destination.
Today, Girvan is still just as popular as it was over a hundred years ago. The fishing fleet is still very active and many people come here in their yachts and sailboats to enjoy the safe harbour. It is also the site for great fishing and those who just want to enjoy the sights can take a cruise around Ailsa Craig. The beaches of Girvan can compete with those in the sunny south and as a result they are often quite crowded. This is a favourite place for families with small children because of the shallow sandy beach that is quite safe for children. You can also take a stroll along the beach and take in the spectacular scenic views that are all around you. The wealth of watersports available is another drawing card for the avid sportsperson. Here you can enjoy rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, diving and swimming.
The McKenna Institute is another popular location with a museum and galleries displaying the works of local and internationally known artists. There are both permanent and rotating exhibits as well as educational programs for all ages. Visit the meeting place of Robert the Bruce at the Town House on Knockcushan Street and tour the garden beyond, tour Girvan Parish School, built in 1832 and still in use and take a trip to Stair Park and Doune Cemetery, the resting place of the famous composer, William Jackson. Auld Stumpy, once a clock tower, is all that remains of the McMaster Hall, built in 1911. Although this is a resort town with many entertaining activities for tourists, it is not commercialized to the extent that it interferes with the lives of the residents. Much of the architecture of this town dates back to the early 1800’s and a walking tour of the town will reveal much of the history behind the buildings that you see.
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