Ayrshire is home to a large number of
Castles, some dating back to the 12
th century, fine country houses and many ancient churches and abbeys.
The area reveals a multi cultural past, including Viking influence the Battle of Largs in 1623 saw Viking rules come into force in
Scotland.
Every year in September the Viking Festival takes place here.
William Wallace was brought up in this area, his father being a small landowner, which would have influenced his opinion of English rule in
Scotland. His victorious efforts at the Battle of Stirling Bridge were eventually to no avail, with
Scotland's independence so heavily fought for by
Wallace, eventually being signed away in 1707 in the Treaty of the Union.
The many viaducts and railways are a stark reminder of the area's achievements following the Industrial Revolution, the history can be explored in the many heritage centres and museums in the area.
Robert Burns is also celebrated here in the
Burns National Heritage Park.
There are a total of 44
golf courses in the area and fine walks with superb scenery and many other sporting facilities including horse riding, fishing and watersports.
Scotland (AA Road Map Britain S.)
From the experts at the AA this updated road map is all you need for motoring around Scotland. The maps combine clear design and more road detail with an easy to read scale to ensure that you never lose your way. There are also fifteen town plans on the reverse of each map plus an easy to read place-name index. The maps are folded to a handy slim line format and are contained in a durable encapsulated card cover, offering great value for this price.