Local Attractions
Burns Country
Robert Burns (1759-1796) was born in the neighbouring town of Alloway. No visit to the area is complete without sampling the Burns experience. The recently opened Robert Burns Birthplace Museum includes Burns Cottage, the poet's birthplace, some of the famous landmarks where he set his work, and a modern museum displaying the world's most impressive collection of his life and works.
www.burnsmuseum.org.uk
Fishing
www.doonfootfishings.com/doonfootfishings/home.html
Walking
Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely country stroll or attempt something a bit more ambitious, Doonside is perfectly located to take advantage of a variety of fantastic walks, with options for all levels of experience.
These include the Ayrshire Coastal Path, 100 miles along the coastline, a circular walk from the Tam O' Shanter Experience taking you through Greenan Castle, Belleisle and Rozelle Parks, and a beach walk from Croy Bay through Culzean Country Park.
www.walking.visitscotland.com/walks/southscotland
www.walkingworld.com/Walks/Scotland/South%20Scotland/Ayrshire%20and%20Arran.aspx
For Kids
www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/leisure/citadel-leisure-centre
www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk
www.piratepetes.co.uk
www.culzeanexperience.org
Horse Racing
Ayr Racecourse is located in Ayr and offers more racing days than any other course in Scotland, including the Scottish Grand National and the Ayr Gold Cup. We can arrange everything you need for a great day at the races, from booking advance tickets to organising transport to and from the racecourse. Email us for prices.
www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk
Museums and Galleries
Rozelle House -- collections include Fine Art, Natural History, Geology, Textiles & Costume, Archaeology, Social History and much more.
www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/galleries/rozellehouse
The Maclaurin Galleries -- collections include painting, drawings, sculptures ad prints from the modern period 1900-1990.
www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/galleries/maclaurin
Eating Out
The Secret Garden (a stone's throw from Doonside)
94 Doonfoot Road, Ayr KA7 4DP
01292 442465
Friendly, family run cafe open 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Homemade baking and children's menu. The outdoor decking area has a wonderful view overlooking the River Doon and has an area to leave dogs.
The Balgarth Bar & Restaurant (0.6 miles from Doonside)
8 Dunure Road, Doonfoot KA7 4HR
01292 442441
Family run business with a busy bar, which has large screen TVs showing all major sporting events on Sky. Food is served from 12 noon daily and there is a children's menu. The beer garden and children's play area are popular in the summer.
Chestnuts Hotel (0.8 miles from Doonside)
52 Racecourse Road, Ayr KA7 2UZ
01292 264 393
The 19th Hole bar serves bar lunches and bar suppers and serves meals all day Saturday and Sunday. Booking is recommended for the restaurant, which also has access to the beer garden. Party menus for 10 or more people are available on request.
Savoy Park Hotel (1.2 miles from Doonside)
16 Racecourse Road, Ayr KA7 2UT
01292 266112
Extensive menu based on traditional Scottish fare, children welcome and 2 for 1 offers always available.
Ellisland House Hotel (1.2 miles from Doonside)
19 Racecourse Road, Ayr KA7 2TD
01292 260111
The restaurant is elegant and stylish, but perhaps not great for kids! Food and drinks are available all day every day, from morning coffee with cakes and scones to lunch and dinner.
Saffy's (1.8 miles from Doonside)
2 Dalblair Road, Ayr KA7 1UL
01292 288598
This cafe/bar/brasserie is popular with locals and the food always receives great reviews. Great choice for vegetarians, and children are welcome. Open from 9.30am until late, 7 days a week.
Gallery
