Scotland’s Best Kept Secret

Discover Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran

Best day and multi-day tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling

There’s something exciting happening on the Ayrshire coast. Often overlooked, Ayrshire is one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. However, the new Coig project is changing that. It showcases the region’s stunning coastlines, islands, and heritage, attracting more tourists than ever.

The Gaelic word “Coig” means five. It refers to five touring routes around Ayrshire, the Clyde Coast, and the islands of Arran, Bute, and Cumbrae. Each route highlights natural beauty, outdoor adventure, history, and culture. They are perfect for one-day or multi-day tours from Edinburgh.

As an Ayrshire local, I was eager to test the Coig app. I planned a three-day tour following the Arran and Shire routes. The app was easy to use. In just a few clicks, I had chosen the best routes for my journey. Then, our adventure began.

Alloway – Birthplace of Robert Burns

Our first stop was Alloway, one of my favourite spots in Scotland. This charming suburb of Ayr is famous as the birthplace of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet.

Here, you can visit the Burns Cottage, where he was born. In addition, explore the Burns Monument and Memorial Gardens, cross the Brig o’ Doon, and see the ruins of Alloway Kirk, where Burns’ father William is buried.

The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a must-see. It houses over 5,000 artefacts, including handwritten manuscripts, Burns’ excise pistol, and even a lock of his hair. Whether you are a lifelong Burns fan or new to his poetry, a day here provides a full experience of Scotland’s literary heritage.

Burns Monument and Memorial Gardens.

Dunure – Coastal Village and Outlander Location

Next, we drove down the Ayrshire coast to Dunure. This tiny 19th-century fishing village offers stunning views of the Firth of Clyde.

Dunure Castle, perched on sea cliffs, was once the stronghold of the Kennedy family, the Earls of Cassilis. Interestingly, it also appeared in Outlander (Seasons 3 and 4). The harbour scenes feature Jamie and Claire sailing to Jamaica, while the castle was used in scenes with young Ian swimming to Silkies’ Island.

Dunure Castle – Ayrshire and Isle of Arran.

Culzean Castle – Ayrshire Attractions for One-Day Tours

Our journey continued to Culzean Castle, perched dramatically on the cliffs. Designed by Robert Adam in the 18th century, the castle offers guided tours filled with fascinating stories.

The top-floor apartment was gifted to President Eisenhower, and the castle gardens are breathtaking. Whether you enjoy history, architecture, or scenic walks, Culzean Castle is a highlight of any Ayrshire day trip.

Culzean Castle

Isle of Arran – Scotland in Miniature

Next, we headed to Isle of Arran, often called “Scotland in Miniature.” The island’s north is mountainous, dominated by Goatfell, while the south is flat and agricultural.

We boarded the Cal Mac ferry from Ardrossan, arriving in Brodick after a short one-hour journey. Arran offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to B&Bs and Airbnbs. After settling in, we prepared for a day of adventure.

Hiking Goatfell – Panoramic Views Across Scotland

Our main activity was hiking Goatfell. The 5 km route from Brodick Castle to the summit is well-marked and suitable for first-time visitors.

At the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views: the Paps of Jura to the west, the Ayrshire coast to the east, Ailsa Craig to the south, and even Northern Ireland on a clear day. After descending, we stopped at Arran Brewery and Wineport to enjoy refreshments and celebrate the hike.

Northern Arran – Lochranza Castle & Machrie Standing Stones

Following the Wild and Free route on the Coig app, we explored northern Arran.

Lochranza Castle sits on a peninsula overlooking Lochranza. Legend has it that Robert the Bruce landed here en route to claim the Scottish throne.
Nearby, the Machrie Standing Stones are a spectacular Neolithic site, set on open moorland with the Arran mountains in the distance. Truly, these stones are among Scotland’s most beautiful ancient monuments.

Northern Arran – Lochranza Castle and Machrie Standing Stones

The Wild and Free route on the Coig app takes you to Lochranza Castle, steeped in history and linked to Robert the Bruce. Nearby, the Machrie Standing Stones offer a haunting glimpse of Scotland’s Neolithic past, set against rolling moorland and distant mountains.

These locations are perfect for photography, exploration, and immersing yourself in Scottish history and mystery.

Machrie Standing Stones – Neolithic site on Arran

Lagg Distillery – Whisky Experience

No Arran adventure is complete without visiting Lagg Distillery, the island’s newest distillery. Opened in 2019, it offers tours, tastings of their peated whisky, and a cozy restaurant with stunning views over the Firth of Clyde.

It’s a perfect stop for whisky lovers and anyone wanting to experience authentic Scottish craft spirits.

Brodick Castle, Lamlash, and The King’s Caves

Before heading home, we visited Brodick Castle for a final exploration of its gardens and historic interiors. The south coast of Arran, including Lamlash and Whiting Bay, offers breathtaking views of the Holy Isle.

The trip concluded at the King’s Caves, linked to Robert the Bruce’s famous spider story — a memorable way to end the Ayrshire and Arran adventure.