Ayrshire Coast and Gardens

Based in the popular resort of Irvine, this tour combines exploration of the Ayrshire Coast with a spot of island hopping. Also featured are Culzean Castle, Brodick Castle, and plenty of time at leisure.

We start with a short ferry crossing from Largs to Great Cumbrae, a small and picturesque island only 10 miles across. We have an afternoon at leisure around Troon, with its sandy beaches, beautiful views, and bustling harbor.  We head south to Culzean Castle and Country Park, perched high above the Ayrshire cliffs. A costumed guide will share the secrets of the castle, once home to the chieftan of Clan Kennedy, an ancient Scottish family descended from Robert the Bruce. There is a planned excursion to the Isle of Arran, beginning with an included visit to Brodick Castle. Dramatically set against the backdrop of Goatfell, the grand red sandstone, baronial-style castle has stunning views over Brodick Bay and boasts impressive gardens. There is then some free time in Brodick to enjoy.

Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine****

The Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine (formerly the Hallmark hotel) is a 4-star, modern, low-rise hotel on the outskirts of the town and set in its own grounds.  The restaurant offers a buffet breakfast with a served evening meal.   All bedrooms have TV, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer, and a good number of the rooms are on the ground level.

Price includes

Door to door pick up service

Elite coach travel

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast

Tea/ coffee and shortbread on arrival at hotel

Return ferry crossing Largs/ Great Cumbrae/Largs

Admission to Culzean Castle and Gardens

Admission to Brodick Castle and Gardens

Return ferry crossing Ardrossan Brodick/ Ardrossan

45-minute “Face to Face with the Past” Character Tour at Culzean Castle

5 days/ 4 nights

Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine****

The Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine (formerly the Hallmark hotel) is a 4-star, modern, low-rise hotel on the outskirts of the town and set in its own grounds.  The restaurant offers a buffet breakfast with a served evening meal.   All bedrooms have TV, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer, and a good number of the rooms are on the ground level.